PA representative proposes gift ban

Posted 8/21/12

HARRISBURG, PA — Rep. Rick Saccone has proposed a total gift ban for state lawmakers. This comes after governor-elect Tom Wolf said he will impose an absolute gift ban on members of his transition …

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PA representative proposes gift ban

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HARRISBURG, PA — Rep. Rick Saccone has proposed a total gift ban for state lawmakers. This comes after governor-elect Tom Wolf said he will impose an absolute gift ban on members of his transition team and members of the executive branch once he takes office.

Existing law allows legislators to receive gifts, as long as they disclose any items that exceed $250 in value. But, according to Saccone, the reporting rules are cumbersome and do not offer a complete picture of gifts received.

That’s why he has long advocated for a total gift ban. Such a ban, he said, would be clear-cut, easier to enforce and contribute greatly to restoring public confidence in how we do business.

As soon as the new session begins, he plans to reintroduce House Bill 1667, which would implement a total gift ban for all public officials and employees. It would not ban gifts from family members, as long as they don’t work as lobbyists. It also would allow legislators to receive educational materials relevant to their jobs and to receive plaques and awards for service from community groups and organizations.

What it would prohibit, however, are lobbyist-paid dinners, sports tickets, travel, entertainment and cash gifts of any amount.

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