Governments are formed by communities to protect and promote their welfare, but the public interest can only be advanced if the people trust those who make up their government. Just about one in five Americans express confidence that the government is working for them—and I believe we, as their elected representatives, must act to restore that confidence. That is why I am proposing a reasonable restriction on gifts to public employees and those who hold or seek public office.
 
My proposal will prohibit public officers, public employees, and candidates for public office from:
 

• accepting a gift of cash in any amount;
• accepting any gift that has either a fair market value or an aggregate actual cost of more than $50 from any one person in a calendar year.

 
As advocates for the public good, we have a duty to serve those we represent and rebuild their trust in our government. We must hold ourselves to a higher standard, so I ask you to join me us in co-sponsoring this important initiative.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 0770: 65-1102