O’Donnell retires; new clerk installed

Clerk of the Legislature Patrick J. O’Donnell retired at the end of 2022 after serving in the position for 44 years. Prior to his retirement, O’Donnell was the longest-serving active clerk of a state legislature in the country.

O’Donnell was succeeded by Brandon Metzler, who was sworn into office Jan. 4 following his election by state senators. Previously an assistant clerk, Metzler has worked in the clerk’s office since 2017. The clerk must be elected to the position by the full membership of the Legislature every two years.

The clerk’s office is responsible for ensuring that all constitutional, statutory and policy requirements are followed when the Legislature conducts its business. The office also maintains official records of all legislative business, maintains the Legislature’s website and produces informational publications about the institution.