In the near future, I plan to reintroduce legislation aimed at increasing transparency and fairness in government by implementing additional protections to prevent nepotism in county government.

It is crucial that we eliminate the culture of self-serving government to better serve the people who elected us. To further this goal, my legislation will prohibit a county commissioner from voting on the appointment of a member to any board, authority, or similar body that was established to improve economic development in the county, if a member of the commissioner’s immediate family holds an executive-level position within that entity.
 
In an era of limited funding resources, it is vital that grants, loans, and contracts are awarded based on their potential return on investment and the benefits they bring to the community. Just as we do in the Senate, where Rule 20 requires us to disclose any direct, personal, private, or pecuniary interest in a bill or decision, public officials should not be allowed to cast self-serving votes that could undermine the public’s trust.
 
This legislation was formerly Senate Bill 107 during the 2023-24 Session and was co-sponsored by Senator Bartolotta.
 
I sincerely hope that you will join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this information, please contact Jeffrey Ivicic in my office at jivicic@pasen.gov.