New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman says in a legislative session in which the leaders of the Assembly and Senate are both indicted on corruption charges, the need for ethics reform in Albany is shockingly clear.
Speaking at the Monroe County Hall of Justice, Schneiderman outlined his "End New York Corruption Now Act," which he says has three main goals: end the pernicious effect of outside money in politics and government, ensure every act of corruption is met with a swift, serious response, and encourage more honorable people to pursue public service.
Among the many provisions in the bill: ending outside employment for lawmakers, ban per diem limits and dramatically tighten campaign contribution limits, restrict contributions by lobbyists, create a public financing system and provide for a substantial salary increase for legislators while extending their terms from two years to four years.
Schneiderman says the bill represents bold reforms that get to the root of corruption, equips law enforcement the tolls needed to fight it, and professionalizes the legislature.
Groups like the League of Women Voters, Common Cause New York and the Interfaith Alliance are all supporting the legislation