Dear Source:
Some weeks ago I shared an open letter to the Attorney General (http://vigov.net/vigov/lettertoag.html) in which I pointed out that the V.I. Code requires incumbent Senators to take unpaid leave in order to campaign.
I have not received a public or private response to that letter. I want to know why our Attorney General is ignoring this timely issue.
Since my first letter it has come to my attention that the Revised Organic Act of 1954 limited the Senate to a two-month session plus a one-month special session. (Title 7, Vol. 1). A 1964 amendment granted the Senate the right to set its own agenda. This right has been unlawfully abused. Thus, part-time senators is not just a good idea. It is the law. The original intent of our law remains clear. I remind the Attorney General and the public that Title 18 Section II clearly states that persons employed in the legislative branch must take leave of absence to campaign.
This leave would not adversely effect our local population. Our Senators are not currently focused on the people's business. Does anyone believe that a substantial law, particularly a realistic budget, will be passed in the next five weeks? It's hard to believe possible but we are getting even more grandstanding and poor behavior than usual—all aimed at getting free press and possibly votes.
Much of what is wrong with our government would be fixed if we can remove career politicians, their related expenses and lack of progress. The authors of the Organic Act knew this, why are we ignoring their wisdom?
BTW – While I applaud the thought, Senator Richard's Bill regarding this issue is critically flawed.
Regards,
Charles V. Balch
