Alabama Constitution Section 54 - Expulsion for corruption bar to further service in legislature; punishment for contempt or disorderly behavior not bar to indictment for same offense.
Alabama Constitution – Section 54: Legislative Expulsion and Legal Accountability
📜 Full Text of Section 54:
"A member of either house expelled for corruption shall not thereafter be eligible for membership in either house; and punishment for contempt or disorderly behavior shall not bar an indictment for the same offense."
🔍 Explanation:
This section contains two important provisions regarding legislative conduct and consequences:
1. Permanent Disqualification for Corruption:
If a legislator is expelled from the Alabama House or Senate due to corruption,
🔒 They are permanently barred from serving again in either house of the Alabama Legislature.
2. No Double Jeopardy Shield for Legislative Discipline:
If a member is punished by their chamber (e.g., censure, suspension) for contempt or disorderly behavior,
⚖️ That does not protect them from being criminally indicted and prosecuted in court for the same conduct.
⚖️ Significance:
Ensures that ethical standards are upheld in the legislature.
Prevents lawmakers from using internal disciplinary actions as a shield against legal accountability.
Aims to maintain public trust in the legislative process.
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