Thanks for highlighting the need for sweeping ethics reform, Mario. New Mexico needs a ban on gifts to public officials from persons having a financial interest in their official duties. We need better lobbyist disclosure and reforms to the Campaign Reporting Act. Some sort of independent oversight body is needed to enforce compliance.

Also, isn't it time we open up conference committees to the public?
Matt Brix | Homepage | 01.26.06 - 9:38 am | #

Meaningful rules to govern the conduct of Legislatures would have to be made and watched over by a group of private citizens who have no ties with the Legislature.
I belive State employees are not permitted to receive any gifts , including meals, from people who are vendors to the State. Legislators should be held to the same standard.
The rules of conduct by Legislators should be simple enough to understand that loopholes could be non-existant.
The Governor should be bound by the same rules. No exceptions.
Mike
Mike | 01.26.06 - 1:14 pm | #