May 18, 2008

Congressional Ethics

Like many members of Congress, Senator Wyden is troubled by continued instances of unethical behavior by policy makers and lobbyists.  He considers it an extraordinary honor to represent the people of Oregon and is saddened that these acts are helping to undermine Americans’ confidence in their government.

To address these issues and foster better confidence in government, Senator Wyden voted for comprehensive ethics reform, the Legislative Transparency and Accountability Act, as one of his first acts in the 110th Congress.  This important legislation takes the steps necessary to make lobbying practices more transparent and Senate rules more democratic and ethical by:

  • Toughening up the rules governing meals, gifts, and travel. 
  • Providing greater transparency to the appropriations earmark process.
  • Requiring disclosure of private employment negotiations and slowing “the revolving door” for former Senators and staff from government into private business or lobbying. 
  • Expanding lobbying disclosure requirements and enhancing the criminal penalties for violations of those requirements. 
  • Denying pensions to former Members convicted of certain crimes. 

Senator Wyden is also pleased that this bill will finally end the practice of “secret holds” in the Senate.  Using this undemocratic practice, Senators can anonymously block a piece of legislation or nomination from even coming to the Senate floor.  Since his first senatorial election victory in 1996, Senator Wyden has fought to end this practice and require Senators to publicly announce any hold they place.  

The Senate bill must now be passed by the House of Representatives and signed by the President to go into effect.  Senator Wyden will continue to fight to make this happens.

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