As investigations into both Attorney General John Swallow and Lt. Gov. Greg Bell focused a spotlight on ethics, the Legislature passed several reform bills this year.
Lawmakers passed SB83 to restrict moonlighting by top state political appointees. That came after revelations that Swallow was paid $23,500 while he was the chief deputy to former Attorney General Mark Shurtleff for consulting work on a cement project for a friend who owned a chain of payday-lending stores.
 |
Join the Discussion |
 |
Post a Comment |
They also passed legislation to create an independent ethics commission for elected executive branch officials, to match an existing one for legislators.
It also passed a bill designed to close a loophole that allowed corporations to keep secret who donates to them for political purposes, although critics say it is unconstitutional and vow a court challenge.
Lawmakers also required pollsters to identify who funds surveys at the end of questioning, an attempt to stop "push-polls" that are more akin to negative campaign ads than truly scientific polls.
Lee Davidson
-
Five injured, three ejected in Interstate 80 rollover
Published May 19, 2013 10:54:02AM -
Montana man killed in motorcycle crash near Vernal
Published May 19, 2013 10:20:02AM -
Official: Virginia driver likely had medical condition
Published May 19, 2013 10:18:10AM -
Six injured in two head-on collisions in Saratoga Springs
Published May 19, 2013 10:06:01AM
Copyright 2013 The Salt Lake Tribune. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
