[justlurking]

Declare the seats vacant and call for a vote.

It would be a nice resolution, but it's not possible.

Read the Election Code, especially this part.

There's no provision to declare an office vacant. Vacancy occurs only on death, resignation, declination, or removal. Resignation and declination require an overt declaration by the office-holder.

Removal requires action by a court or tribunal. I haven't found any basis for either to act.

When this is all over, I expect there will be legislation introduced next session to provide the basis for an office to be declared vacant if these tactics are used again.

[bigfootbob]

"...I expect there will be legislation introduced next session to provide the basis for an office to be declared vacant if these tactics are used again."

Does this require a 2/3rd's majority to pass? Would this not be a hard sell in a divided house?

[deport]

The Senate has rules regarding attendance or not being absent without an approved okay. However I find no penality specified in their rules for failure to attend. They do provide for expelling a member for misconduct with a 23rds vote.

[CyberAnt]

"legislation introduced next session to provide the basis for an office to be declared vacant if these tactics are used again"

Excellant! Time for HARDBALL!!

[No Truce With Kings]

"When this is all over, I expect there will be legislation introduced next session to provide the basis for an office to be declared vacant if these tactics are used again."

And they will prevent the law from being passed by skipping the state.