Jindal to seek greater enforcement of ethics laws

In a push to enhance ethics reform efforts he initiated four years ago, Gov. Bobby Jindal today unveiled legislative proposals focused on increased enforcement. “This session we’ll push for enhancements that build upon our past successes in making our ethics system more effective and accountable,” Jindal says. Specifically, the governor wants to enhance enforcement of campaign finance laws as well as late filing fees and clarifying appeals. He also wants to increase prosecution of ethics violations and strengthen the state ethics board’s authority to assess ethics violations. The Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana says it is welcoming Jindal’s efforts. “These proposals could be a productive step forward by adding clarity and better administration to the process of handling cases,” says PAR President Robert Travis Scott in a prepared released. PAR says it’s completing an examination of the existing state laws and enforcement, and plans to release a report soon with findings and recommendations. The scope of PAR’s work will include consideration of new legislation, rule-making and system management. “We look forward to the opportunity to see the actual legislation that will be filed and to assist the public and policymakers throughout the process by providing information and perspectives about these important matters,” Scott says. Get the full details on Jindal’s ethics proposals at his website here.