This article originally appeared in the Rhode Island Current on December 14, 2023 and was written by Nancy Lavin.  

Below is executive director of Common Cause Rhode Island John Marion’s comment on the poor handling of the I-95 Washington Bridge closure.

John Marion, executive director of Common Cause Rhode Island, saw a similarly apt opportunity for oversight hearings in the wake of the bridge failure.

“Oversight can perform a variety of functions,” Marion said. “At its most basic, it’s getting answers to questions. The legislature enjoys powers the press doesn’t to subpoena officials and make them answer questions and turn over documents.”

However, Marion added that the General Assembly has been relatively “stingy” when it comes to exercising its full oversight authority, including issuing subpoenas to compel witnesses to speak.

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