EDITORIAL: Ethics Reform - A Big Win for Rhode Island
Friday, June 17, 2016
The passage Thursday of ethics reform legislation is major progress in Rhode Island. While others have talked the talk, this year’s legislative leaders have truly walked the walk.
An unusual triad pushed the strongest possible legislation forward. Their relationship was not always symmetrical, but the combination of Speaker Nicholas Mattiello, Common Cause Directors past (Phil West) and present (John Marion) and Senator James Sheehan delivered the strongest legislation.
"This is a historic moment for those who care about ethical government in Rhode Island," said Marion. "The work is not done, however, because voters still need to pass this constitutional amendment on the ballot in November. Once enacted, this will restore the Rhode Island Ethics Commission to its place as a national model."
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST“There is no room at the General Assembly for those who put self-interest before our state’s best interest,” said Speaker Mattiello. “This reform, if approved by the voters, will bring a strong sense of accountability to our chambers.”
For Mattiello, he can take credit for eliminating master lever and passing significant ethics reform in just two years as Speaker.
“Ethics reform is not just a bill, but a journey,” said Senator Sheehan, who has continually pushed for ethics legislation. “While it has taken six long and arduous years to get ethics reform before us today, I am very pleased that it has finally arrived.”
The only thing left is for Rhode Island voters to approve the measure in November.
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