Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, has announced the Assembly voted 137-4 Tuesday to back ethics reforms that include closing the limited liability corporation (LLC) loophole as well as placing limits on outside income for legislators.
She said the bill was necessary to address issues surrounding state lawmakers in the Senate and Assembly that have faced corruption charges in recent years.
“The people of the North Country need to be able to believe their voices are not being drowned out by the most powerful and wealthy residents of our state," Assemblywoman Russell said.
"Our democratic system is strongest when the will of the people is heard loudly and clearly. Unfortunately, big money and special interests have unfairly bought access and influence, and this is unacceptable,” said Russell. “By closing the LLC loophole and limiting outside income, we are sending a clear message that we all must play by the same rules.”
According to the state Board of Elections, LLCs are treated the same as individuals, which allows an individual to make multiple contributions to the same candidate or committee through separate LLCs.
The Assembly’s ethics reforms would clarify election law to treat LLCs like corporations, holding them to an aggregate $5,000 contribution limit, Assemblywoman Russell noted.
"This will help level the playing field," she suggested.
Furthermore, the legislation would limit legislators’ outside incomes, using a formula similar to what is used by congressional representatives.
"I made a personal choice to not earn a living as an attorney while I am serving in the state Assembly. The North Country residents I represent in Albany deserve representation focused on their needs," Assemblywoman Russell said.
The measure also reduces the spending threshold by which lobbyists must disclose their donors to any amount spent over $5,000.
“These measures are necessary to bring trust back to state government, and I will continue to fight to ensure we have a more transparent and accountable system,” Assemblywoman Russell added.
She noted there is more work to be done.
"I expect the Assembly will also address pension reform in the coming days. I am co-sponsoring legislation that would prevent public officers convicted of felonies stemming from corruption from receiving their taxpayer-funded pensions," Assemblywoman Russell said.
The proposed constitutional amendment would apply to all elected officials at the state and local level, as well as judges, executive appointees, policymakers and certain members of public boards and government bodies.