Watchdog Vacancy is an Opportunity for Real Ethics Reform

House Republicans have numerous anti-corruption measures ready to go, along with new laws that would strengthen the office of the inspector general and improve accountability.

✅ HB 1382 (Spain) – Allows Legislative Inspector General to issue subpoenas without prior approval and requires the Executive and Legislative Ethics Commissions to release the reports to the public within 60 days

✅ HB 1554 (McCombie) – Prohibits use of campaign funds for a criminal defense related to misconduct in capacity as a public official, any claims of sexual harassment, or any claims of discrimination

✅ HB 1727 (Elik) – Suspends pension benefits to public officials if they’re charged with a felony connected to their public service, and permanently withholds these funds upon conviction

These bills can and should be taken up this veto session.