
Rhode Island Representative, Robert Quattrocchi, has faced backlash for making offensive comments towards his colleague during a hearing. While discussing legislation that would require lawmakers to attach equity impact statements to bills, Quattrocchi made derogatory remarks about pedophiles and Satanists. Democratic Representative, Rebecca Kislak, corrected him, saying that being a pedophile is not a sexual orientation. Quattrocchi then appeared to apologize for his comments. Rhode Island House Speaker, Joseph Shekarchi, has called Quattrocchi’s comments “reprehensible and insulting”. Quattrocchi has apologized several times to Kislak but declined to provide further comment. It is unclear whether Quattrocchi will face any repercussions for his remarks.