Senate president leaving private law firm

NEWPORT, R.I.  - Rhode Island Senate President Teresa
Paiva-Weed is leaving her job at a Middletown law firm to devote
more time at the State House.

Paiva-Weed told The Newport Daily News this week that she is no
longer taking clients at Moore, Virgadamo & Lynch. She expects to
leave the firm in four to six weeks and plans on seeking another
job in the fall.

In January, Paiva-Weed became the first woman elected to lead a
chamber in the General Assembly. She said her legislative duties
are demanding more time as Gov. Don Carcieri and lawmakers debate
how to close massive budget deficits.

Paiva-Weed’s law firm represents slot parlor Newport Grand. In
the past, she has recused herself from debates and votes on
gambling issues.