No Way to Make Laws. Dismay Over Alcohol Abuse at Capitol.

The House of Representatives is wrestling with excessive drinking among legislators while the chamber is in session. Capitol police officers and staff members are dismayed. Speaker of the House Matthew Ritter has admonished his caucus over several incidents.

One legislator fell in a parking garage stairwell while walking from the garage roof where members were drinking to the causeway between the garage and the Legislative Office Building, where some legislators leave their laptop computers that are programmed to allow them to cast a roll call vote from a distance.

On Thursday, State Representative Robin Comey, a second term Democrat and Assistant Majority Leader, was incomprehensible when she attempted to speak on an amendment pending before the House. Comey’s condition caused concern on the floor. Representative William Petit (R-Plainville), doctor, hurried to Comey’s side. Aides provided water. A police officer arrived with medical equipment. Petit returned to his seat. Comey was escorted off the House floor. She returned to the Capitol Tuesday.

Officers have taken car keys from legislators who appear to be intoxicated.

Ritter may be able to address the immediate embarrassment by declaring the 4th floor of the LOB, where much over-serving is said to occur, an alcohol-free zone.