Galooch's Law

Massachusetts, like other states, has a tradition of naming laws after people who inspire their creation, particularly for causes such as abducted children or victims of drunken driving.

So it's in that tradition that I'm here to propose a new piece of legislation for Massachusetts -- Galooch's Law. The focus -- taking aim at people who enable drunken drivers through direct intervention or indirect indifference.

Cambridge Democratic Sen. Anthony Galluccio was somewhat subdued at his court appearance yesterday on charges he left the scene after rear-ending a mini-van. It wasn't his first brush with allegations of operating a motor vehicle when he should have more sense than to get behind the wheel.

“You know, the legislative session has concluded,’’ Galluccio said, speaking to a dozen reporters and photographers as he left Cambridge District Court after a brief hearing in his case. “It gives me an opportunity to focus on personal issues. I am committed to doing that.’’

It could be a trying time for Galluccio without his legislative protectors, although Senate President Therese Murray has supposedly (and finally) told him to get a driver.

But then again, maybe not. After all he still has the Cambridge Police to protect his backside. You know, that same department that busted a homeowner thought to be breaking into his own home.

Galooch's Law, which I suggest be co-sponsored by 199 other legislators, would prescribe sanctions on public agencies or officials who tolerate repeated socially irresponsible or illegal behavior by one of their colleagues.

Penalties would be civil -- repeated public disclosure of the hypocritical conduct.

Obviously we should all remember who was responsible for the crackdown -- Sen. Anthony D. Galluccio.

And isn't it time for someone -- friend, family or public agency -- to take away his keys? Before he kills someone.