University of Virginia Library

Delegates Pass Amendment
Against Campus Disorders

By William Smith

Two bills emerged from the Virginia
House of Delegates yesterday which
promise to have an impact upon the
University community.

An amendment which would make it a
misdemeanor for any person to return to
the scene of a campus disorder without
"proper permission" subsequent to being
ordered to leave by "proper authorities,"
was passed overwhelmingly. The vote was
81-13.

The amendment was added to earlier
legislation designed to curb campus
disorders. Delegate Stanley Walker, D-Norfolk,
chairman of the State Crime Commission,
called it 'a safeguard for the future.'

Other delegates did not appear to be so
certain. The broadness of the statute was feared
by some to encourage repressive actions against
innocent bystanders and passers-by.
Furthermore, the constitutionality of the
amendment was seriously questioned. These
objections however, provoked little response as
proponents of the measure did not have much
difficulty securing its passage.

The second bill provides for a judicial
inquiry and review commission to hear
complaints against state judges. Such action
could result in censure, retirement or removal
of delinquent jurists. Some lawyers have
reportedly been unwilling to institute
proceedings against certain judges for fear of
reprisals in the form of prejudicial court
decisions.