MONTPELIER, Vt. — A Republican state lawmaker from Vermont has apologized for repeatedly pouring water into a Democratic colleague’s bag after he caught her doing it on video.

State Rep. Mary Morrissey publicly apologized to state Rep. Jim Carroll, colleagues, and the citizens of Vermont from the House floor on Monday. Both are from Bennington, a town of about 15,000 in the southwestern corner of the state.

“I am truly ashamed for my actions,” Morrissey said of “her disrespectful conduct” toward Carroll. She said she had apologized directly to Carroll and would be working toward “resolution and restoration through our legislative process.”

This image taken from video provided by Vermont Rep. Jim Carroll, a Democrat, appears to show Vermont Rep. Mary Morrissey, a Republican from Bennington, pouring water into the bag of Democratic Rep. Carroll, also of Bennington, on April 26. Jim Carroll via AP file

In response, Carroll told the chamber that he heard the sincerity in her voice but that he had to be frank, saying: “For five months, I went through this,” and Morrissey had a choice each time she did it. “It was torment,” he said.

Carroll told The Associated Press that the tote bag he hangs in a hallway at the Statehouse was soaked a couple of times per week in January and February. Then, after he was charged with driving under the influence in February and returned from rehab, his bag was soaked almost daily, he said.

“It was relentless,” Carroll said, adding that he was fairly confident it was Morrissey, who he said often mistreated him. He set up a video camera behind a scarf on the opposite wall and captured Morrissey pouring water from a glass into the bag on April 23 and April 26. He then showed the footage to House Speaker Jill Krowinski, who confronted Morrissey with it.

“This is a truly disturbing situation that is at odds with our legislative practices,” Krowinski, a Democrat, said in a statement. She added that “the integrity and decorum of our legislative proceedings and of legislators are of paramount importance, and any actions or behaviors that compromise these values will be thoroughly investigated and addressed.”

Morrissey hasn’t said why she did it, and she didn’t respond to an email seeking comment.

Carroll told fellow lawmakers on Monday that the first time he and Morrissey sit down to talk will be awkward, “but we have to start somewhere.”

The incident has sparked a broader conversation about decorum and behavior among lawmakers in Vermont. Many are questioning how such conduct went unnoticed for so long and what steps can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The House leadership has pledged to review the incident thoroughly and implement measures to ensure that the legislative environment remains respectful and professional.

Several lawmakers expressed their shock and disappointment over the incident. “It’s troubling to think that a colleague would engage in such behavior,” said State Rep. Sarah Coffey. “We must hold ourselves to higher standards and work to rebuild trust among members.”

In the aftermath of the apology, there have been calls for more robust ethics training and mental health support for lawmakers. “The stress and pressures of our roles can sometimes lead to inappropriate actions,” said State Sen. Andrew Perchlik. “We need to ensure that all members have the resources they need to manage these pressures healthily.”

Carroll’s revelation about the repeated water incidents has also raised awareness about the need for better support systems for individuals facing personal struggles, such as addiction and recovery. Carroll’s own journey through rehab and his return to legislative duties underscore the challenges faced by those in public service dealing with personal issues.

Morrissey’s apology, while a step toward reconciliation, has highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue and healing within the Vermont legislature. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect in all interactions, regardless of political differences.

As the legislature moves forward, both Morrissey and Carroll will have the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to resolving the issue and setting a positive example for their colleagues. The path to reconciliation may be challenging, but it is essential for the integrity of Vermont’s legislative body.