Representative Mike Clelland Calls for Tougher Ethics Laws
CONTACT: Office of Rep. Mike Clelland
(850) 717-5029
Representative Mike Clelland Calls for Tougher Ethics Laws
Freshman Democrat Files Two Bills To Hold Elected Officials to a Higher Standard
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As one of his first acts as a new state representative, Mike Clelland (D-Lake Mary) is following up on a campaign promise to work promptly toward reforming Florida’s inadequate ethics laws.
“There are clear gaps in our state’s ethics laws, and I believe the bills that I have filed are practical steps to close those gaps,” said Representative Clelland. “As residents told me on the campaign trail, our state hasn’t been doing enough to protect the public’s interest in the political process.”
Two bills that Representative Clelland has filed provide stronger public protections against corruption and legislative profiteering. House Bill 381 allows for more public involvement in filing valid complaints and expands the scope of the Commission on Ethics, while also protecting the privacy of those who have done nothing wrong. Meanwhile, House Bill 379 increases the transparency of financial transactions made by lawmakers to ensure that the public is aware of certain business dealings. The bill does not prohibit legal and lawful business actions, but merely ensures the public’s right to know.
“It is my hope that by increasing transparency and accountability, we can begin the process of restoring the public’s faith and trust in their elected representatives,” said Representative Clelland.
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