If there’s ever been a time to embrace widespread reform of Congress’ ethics rules, it’s now. With this in mind, I’m delighted to see House Democrats seize the opportunity.
Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (Calif.) and Steering and Policy Committee Chairman George Miller (Calif.) are expected to unveil their legislative proposals, some of which have already been drafted. Titling it “Setting a New Ethical Standard for the House,” the leaders will outline a series of new and heightened prohibitions on Member and lobbyist-related activities.
This isn’t just empty rhetoric or DeLay-inspired opportunism; Dems are unveiling a serious policy agenda that would improve the way the chamber operates. Specifically, Dems want:
*a prohibition of all gifts from lobbyists;
* a ban on Members working “secretly” with corporate lobbyists to write bills;
* an extension from one to two years of the time period during which retired Members or senior staff must wait before lobbying Congress;
* a requirement that Members or a group funding their travel certify that they didn’t ask the funding entity to finance the trip;
* a ban on lobbyists from arranging or financing travel; and
* and end to the “K Street Project” by prohibiting Members and staff from taking or withholding action “on the basis of partisan affiliation.”
Let’s be clear: there’s simply no chance House Republicans will consider these measures, or even allow hearings to be held on their relative merit. But that’s not really the point. Dems are embracing the mantle of reform with both hands, highlighting the ways in which the House could be run in a more honest and forthright fashion.
It’s not dissimilar to the message House Republicans were offering 11 years ago — and if memory served, it worked pretty well for them.