This bill revises the definitions related to conflicts of interest for legislators, specifically within the context of the Legislative Ethics Committee. It introduces a new definition for "public at large," which encompasses any large group of individuals or organizations that may experience similar benefits or detriments from legislation. Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of a financial interest by clarifying that it exists when a legislator or their household member is an employee of or receives compensation from an individual or organization that could materially benefit or suffer from the legislator's official actions. The previous language that included "to act as the person's or organization's agent or advocate" has been removed.

Furthermore, the bill adds new definitions for "direct benefit" and "direct detriment," specifying that these terms refer to financial impacts that directly affect the legislator or their household member without any intervening actions. It also clarifies that such benefits or detriments do not include those affecting the marketplace or programs in which the legislator participates as part of the public at large. Additionally, the bill outlines that for recusal purposes, "organization" refers to the client rather than the lobbyist, and establishes criteria for determining substantial influence over an organization by a registered lobbyist. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 14-B:1, 14-C:2, 14-C:4-a
SB570 text: 14-B:1, 14-C:2, 14-C:4-a