Vermont Business Magazine Senate President Pro Tempore Becca Balint issued the following statement today on abhorrent racist language during break in Transportation Committee on Wednesday: "Late last night it came to my attention that during a break in the Senate Transportation Committee’s morning meeting, a witness could be seen and heard uttering racial epithets.
"My understanding is that all committee members and staff were away from their computers at the time and that no one became aware of the issue until much later. Senator Mazza, chair, and Senator Perchlik, vice chair, were shocked and dismayed when they learned what had happened. The witness was an employee of a consultancy hired by the Agency of Transportation.
"This language is abhorrent and will not be tolerated. The legislature must be a venue that welcomes and supports the participation of all, and language that traumatizes people of color cannot stand. I am working with Legislative IT and Legislative Counsel to remove the footage, while retaining the record for the purpose of transparency and accountability.
"I have also spoken with Secretary of Transportation Joe Flynn about accountability for the individual in question. I just received word through the Agency that the consultancy will be terminating this employee.
"I am deeply troubled that this occurred and will continue to do my best to ensure the safety and accountability of everyone who has business before the legislature."
Source: Montpelier, Vt. -Statement from Senate President Pro Tempore Becca Balint