Rep. Henriquez could appear back at State House Tuesday

BOSTON (AP) - The state House of Representatives apparently plans to give jailed lawmaker Carlos Henriquez an opportunity to address the chamber before voting on whether to expel or otherwise punish the Boston Democrat.

According to the State House News Service, an aide of Henriquez's said he will visit the State House at 2 p.m. Tuesday to appear before the House Ethics Committee.

An order filed by Rep. David Nangle, acting chair of the Ethics Committee, does not mention Henriquez by name but establishes a procedure for potential disciplinary action against a member "who stands accused of violating the ethical standards of the House."

Henriquez is serving a six-month sentence after being convicted of assaulting a former girlfriend. He has so far resisted calls to resign.

The order says "the accused" will be allowed to address the House prior to and possibly during the debate, but would not be allowed to vote. The House has a formal session meeting Thursday.

The House could move to reprimand, censure or expel Henriquez.

Cox Media Group