Mass. Lawmaker Cleared In Late-Night House Party

Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo says there was no inappropriate behavior by a freshman state representative who was spotted in the House chamber with a female legislative staffer following a late-night budget session.

DeLeo says an investigation by his office determined that Rep. Mark Cusack, a Democrat from Braintree, did not violate any House rules or personnel policies in the April 28 incident.

In a separate statement, Cusack said he was thankful for the speaker's findings and apologized for "any appearance of impropriety."

DeLeo's statement also revealed that a "post-budget gathering" was held in the speaker's office — one that he did not attend — and that some participants were drinking beer. The review found that Cusack and the aide accessed the House chamber through a private door leading from the office.