Legislators Losing Interest?
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Updated: 12:23 AM Mar 9, 2008
Legislators Losing Interest?
Sparse crowds, tardiness and food mark Legislature's last day.
Posted: 9:09 PM Mar 8, 2008
Reporter: Associated Press
Email Address: news@wsaz.com
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CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) - Twenty minutes after the Senate was supposed to begin its afternoon floor session today -- with more reporters than lawmakers on the floor -- Senator Frank Deem offered a prediction.

The Wood County Republican said -- quote -- "They won't start 'til that ball game's over."

Even if his fellow Senators weren't preoccupied with West Virginia University's overtime victory against St. John's, they took nearly an hour getting onto the floor.

On the last day of the 78th Legislature's final regular session, though, such tardiness didn't seem out of place.

With most major bills dealing with relatively arcane matters of taxes, pay and pensions, the last day's standard sense of urgency was replaced by a vague feeling that the last day of school had come early.

Politicians mingled at receptions instead of battling on chamber floors. Meetings were abandoned because quorums couldn't be reached. Legislative staffers played cards in one office while reporters glided by, looking for food.

House of Delegates Clerk Greg Gray, who is in his 35th session, says he can't remember a single year with so few late nights.

Latest Comments

Posted by: anonymous on Mar 12, 2008 at 12:19 AM

I think the HARD WORKING PEOPLE ALL OVER WEST VIRGINIA DESERVES a BIG FAT RAISE!Families who have LOST their JOBS NEED HELP,that they Can't Get! Instead you ask these HARD WORKERS to DONATE their MONEY and Free Time to Everything! They are the BACKBONE of the State! YOU FEED YOUR POCKETS and FAT JAWS and DO NOTHING for the PEOPLE! WHAT A WASTE & DISGRACE!
[ Report Abuse ]
Posted by: One Concerned on Mar 11, 2008 at 05:20 PM

Everyone stay informed, our livelihoods are at stake here. Take this serious, go to vote this election. Don't listen to a bunch of professional politicans that have brought things to where they are now ! They are planning day and night to find a way to deceive you, it's their way of life. While we still got a right to vote, go take them all out ! It can't be too soon!
[ Report Abuse ]
Posted by: Mtnwlm on Mar 11, 2008 at 12:05 PM

Finally a reporter who will throw a fastball past someone who believes they can't strike out!! Way to go - Keep it up!!
[ Report Abuse ]
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