Ethics Bill for Public Employees in New York Filed

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has introduced the “Public Integrity Reform Act of 2011,” to address major inadequacies in the current ethics system and restore public trust in government.

The state program bill establishes unprecedented transparency, strict disclosure requirements, and a strong independent monitor with broad oversight of New York State government.

“This legislation will help end an era of corruption in Albany that was fostered by a lack of transparency, oversight and enforcement,” Governor Cuomo said. “This legislation will usher in a dramatic change in the way Albany does business and is a historic step in restoring the public’s trust in government. I commend Majority Leader Skelos, Speaker Silver and their colleagues for their work on this bill and I look forward to its prompt passage and implementation.”

Senate Majority Leader Dean G. Skelos said, “We’re pleased that the Governor is handing up this program bill today, and look forward to strengthening New York’s ethics laws for those who serve in both the State Legislature and the Executive branch. As a result of this historic ethics reform agreement, which was the result of months of hard work, we’ve taken another step forward in restoring the public’s trust in its government. I thank the Governor and the Speaker, and Senators Lanza, Flanagan and Hannon, for their commitment to achieving a positive result for all New Yorkers.”

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said, “The overwhelming majority of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle are hardworking, caring, public-spirited men and women of integrity. The agreed upon bill will ensure that our government is held to the highest standard by requiring more extensive financial disclosure and establishing serious penalties for those who violate the law. I commend my Assembly colleagues, particularly Assemblyman Danny O’Donnell for his leadership and efforts in crafting this legislation.”

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