Connecticut Attorney General's Office

Press Release

Attorney General Statement On Bridgeport Diocese's Withdrawal Of Lawsuit Against Office Of State Ethics

July 2, 2009

"I welcome the Bridgeport Diocese's withdrawing its lawsuit, decisively resolving the legal conflict. This withdrawal -- coupled with an end to the Office of State Ethics' investigation -- spares everyone a lengthy legal battle over core constitutional issues and deep concerns about freedom of speech and religion.

"I strongly support laws stopping corruption in lobbying. I look forward to working with the Office of State Ethics and the legislature to revise and clarify state lobbying laws, assuring strong, consistent respect for free expression and constitutional rights as well as separation of church and state.

"On the eve of this Fourth of July holiday, we can celebrate a victory for core constitutional freedoms and rights -- enabled by all sides here."