Letter to the editor: Why no gift ban for legislators?

As a former Pennsylvania state employee, my position as a law and regulation enforcer put me in contact with business and industry. I was not permitted to accept any gifts, meals or even a glass of water without documenting it with a receipt of payment for that item. This dispels any hint of influence or bribery.

A gift ban is in place for state government employees, but not state legislators. Pennsylvania is one of just eight states with no gift ban for legislators. They are free to accept gifts, travel, lodging and hospitality. It must be reported, but there is no oversight or enforcement. Lobbyists can wine and dine any legislator who will lend an ear to their issue or cause. If state employees must adhere to gift bans, why don’t our lawmakers? Who are they representing, the lobbyists or the citizens?

A gift ban bill must pass if we want to have transparency and trust in government, but such bills, like House Bill 1009 and others, sit in committee and never become law. Why? Our General Assembly’s procedural rules allow a few majority leaders, like Senate Majority Leader Kim Ward, to control what bills get a vote. Let’s call on her to advocate for passing gift ban legislation. Learn more at #FixHarrisburg.

Joanne Hall

West Newton