Comments on: Ex-Rep. Bill Konopnicki, 67, dies of liver disease complications

By: Donna Leone Hamm, Director, Middle Ground Prison Reform

Donna Leone Hamm, Director, Middle Ground Prison Reform — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 18:57:48 +0000

Rep. Konopnicki had a name that almost everyone mangled when attempting to pronounce or spell it, but he was good-natured and professional at all times. As an advocate for the rights of the incarcerated, I was often surprised at this Republican lawmaker’s moderate and reasonable views on criminal sanctions, even in the face of extreme opposition by his fellow caucus members. While we didn’t agree on every approach to take with respect to passing laws which affected prisoners or prisons, I always felt he was an honorable man and one that could be trusted. His word was good. He kept an open mind and really listened to both sides before making crucial decisions. I don’t think you can ask more of a legislator than that. Deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. He is gone much too soon.

By: Son: Former Ariz. legislator dies of liver failure – San Francisco Chronicle | Cure Liver Diseases

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 06:08:17 +0000

[...] died Wednesday of liver failure. Bill Konopnicki served eight years in the Arizona House, …Ex-Rep. Bill Konopnicki, 67, dies of liver disease complicationsArizona Capitol TimesFormer Arizona lawmaker Bill Konopnicki diesazcentralBreaking: Former state [...]

By: Jo Levy

Jo Levy — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 20:32:34 +0000

As someone with he two autoimmune diseases and someone who writes about topic, I believe disclosing his disease would be helpful.