(TRENTON) – Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Peter J.
Barnes III and Paul Moriarty to improve ethics disclosure at independent state
authorities was approved 78-0 Monday by the Assembly.
The bill (A-759) requires members of independent state
authorities to report to the State Ethics Commission the existence of a
contractual relationship between a relative of the member and the independent
state authority.
“Disclosure is always the best way to ensure good government,
and this is a reasonable step forward to ensure taxpayers are protected,” said
Barnes (D-Middlesex). “This requirement would be similar to that expected of
other public officials, and it’s the right thing to do.”
A member who violates the requirements of the bill would be
subject to removal from office and liable to a penalty of up to $5,000, unless
the member knew or reasonably should have known the member was in violation, in
which case the penalty shall be no less than $5,000 and no more than $10,000 for
each violation.
“This is a simple step that can go a long way toward improved
ethics at these authorities,” said Moriarty (D-Gloucester/Camden). “It’s the
right thing to do.”
The bill has now been referred to the Senate State Government,
Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee.
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