Abdication by fleeing the State? Since 1689 that has been a principle of the Common Law when it was applied to King James II for fleeing England at the time of the Glorious Revolution.

Fleeing the state to avoid the performance of public duty is tantamount to resignation. Wisconsin and Indiana should consider declaring the absent legislators’ seats vacant and hold special elections to fill them. If any of the Democrats wish to contest that action in court, they would have to return to their state (and be subject to arrest by the Legislature’s Sergeant at Arms).