House speaker cites "legislative immunity" to keep papers secret
From Sunshine Review
11 November 2008
Massachusetts Speaker of the House Sal DiMasi is reportedly citing "legislative immunity" in order to keep documents secret from the Ethics Commission, who filed a court suit to obtain them. Legislative immunity is normally considered to be a protection against prosecution for statements made in an open legislative debate. Massachusetts courts have not ruled on legislative immunity since 1808.[1]
Allegations
Suspicion first turned toward DiMasi when it was reported that several of his close friends and associates had received substantial payments from firms who were doing business with the state or companies who had an interest in legislation that was pending.
One of these allegations had to do with $13 million that was appropriated to purchase new computer software, which is said to be the subject of an investigation by the state Ethics Commission. However, it can not be confirmed as state law prohibits any public acknowledgment of investigations that have been launched or concluded without any charges made.[1]
Legislative Immunity
DiMasi has refused to make any comment regarding the allegations, citing confidentiality law. He has told house leaders that he has refused to provide documents which the Ethics Commission filed a suit in court to get, citing legislative immunity. Doing so, DiMasi is effectively seeking to keep documents hidden which could demonstrate if a legislator or friend of a legislator had a financial interest in issues before the legislature.[1]
