Alvarado-Gil Removed from Committees After Switch

West Virginia Sen. Michael Maroney has pleaded not guilty to charges of disorderly conduct and indecent exposure following an incident at a Glen Dale gaming establishment, leading to his removal from all committee responsibilities by Senate President Craig Blair. Maroney was allegedly caught on surveillance engaging in inappropriate behavior, prompting his arrest and release on a $3,500 bond. Separately, California State Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil was stripped of her committee assignments after switching her party affiliation from Democrat to Republican. Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire stated that her decision necessitated a reevaluation of committee memberships to reflect balance. Alvarado-Gil cited a divergence in values from the Democratic Party and concerns over its policies as reasons for her switch, emphasizing her commitment to her constituents despite losing committee positions.