PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – Rhode Island lawmakers raised a glass to St. Patrick’s Day and St. Joseph’s Day on Thursday, a week after a legislator complained about heavy drinking at the State House.
The toasts were part of Irish and Italian cultural celebrations held in the legislative chambers.
Providence Democratic Rep. Moira Walsh last week told WPRO-AM there’s an “insane amount of drinking” in the building. Legislative leaders disputed that.
Despite the brouhaha, Democratic House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello didn’t consider skipping the toasts. Lawmakers drank a small amount of Baileys Irish Cream liqueur and Chianti wine.
Mattiello said it’s tradition to celebrate various cultures and there isn’t excessive alcohol consumption.