Virginia Bill Would Ban 'Political Retaliation' by State Lawmakers

Result of threats made against a PAC because of its endorsement

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – While Gov.-elect Terry McAuliffe talks up ethics reform, three key state Democrats are staying mum about legislation that would prohibit political "retaliation" by legislators.

State Sen. Tom Garrett, R-Louisa, has filed Senate Bill 12, which would add a 12th commandment to the state's code of conduct for public officials.

Garrett's bill says no state legislator may "use his public position to retaliate or threaten to retaliate against any person for expressing views on matters of public concern or for exercising any right that is otherwise protected by law."