Governor Carcieri Commends Majority Leader Fox and Senator Lenihan for Promise to Restore Ethics Commission Jurisdiction over General Assembly

02-04-2010

Governor Carcieri today commended Majority Leader Gordon Fox for submitting a resolution to be placed on the November 2010 ballot that restores the Ethics Commission jurisdiction over the General Assembly. The Governor also commended Senator Lenhian who has made a commitment to submit a resolution in the Senate. The resolution reverses the June 2009 Supreme Court decision that shielded legislators from prosecution or civil lawsuits based on their actions as a legislator.

“Restoring the Ethics Commission jurisdiction over the General Assembly will help to regain confidence and trust of the people of Rhode Island. The intention of the voters was always to hold all elected officials, including members of the House and Senate, to the same high level of ethical standards. I strongly urge the General Assembly to act immediately and pass this important resolution, giving voters the opportunity to set the record straight. Just as the voters did in 1986, I am confident they will approve this ballot measure and insist that all elected officials be accountable for their actions.”