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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 25, 2019 05:46 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Tarah Toohil |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Independent Legislative Conduct Review Board for both House and Senate |
| As troubling allegations of harassment and misconduct continue to emerge, we find ourselves in a difficult position. This is a crucial juncture for the institution of the General Assembly. I am proposing that we establish a Legislative Conduct Review Board, patterned after the Judicial Conduct Board, whose jurisdiction would include allegations against Senators and House members for unethical conduct in violation with any rule, statute or constitutional provision governing the ethical conduct of legislators. The 12 member panel would receive complaints, investigate them, and render judgment as to their credibility. In addition to legislators, one from each of the four caucuses, it would include both experts and lay persons who could bring diversity and differing viewpoints. This process will work to prevent the partisan quandaries that can stand in the way of a fair review and will provide remedies that work to rebuild public trust and confidence in the process. My proposal will also provide that upon the board making a threshold determination of credibility, a recommendation may be made to suspend a member from voting and committee participation until a final determination is reached. In cases where this board makes a final determination that the accusations are credible, the matter would revert to the full Senate or House for any appropriate disciplinary action. This process is designed to assure both the member and the complainant that due process will be afforded. And it will provide incontrovertible evidence that we are taking a strong stand against harassment, public corruption, or other misconduct, no matter the position or the party of the accused. Thank you for your consideration of this proposal to create procedural predictability and uniformity in both the House and the Senate. |