The Senate Resolution introduced by Pittman on January 7, 2025, establishes Ethical Conduct Rules for the Pennsylvania Senate during the 209th and 210th Regular Sessions (2025-2026). These rules prohibit campaign activities during Senate work hours and the use of Senate resources for such activities. While Senate employees can engage in campaign work on their own time, it cannot be a condition of their employment. The resolution also forbids the solicitation or receipt of campaign contributions within Senate offices and restricts the use of official Senate contact lists to legislative purposes only.
To ensure accountability, the resolution outlines a formal process for reporting and investigating alleged ethical violations, requiring documentation within one year of the incident. An independent third party will conduct investigations, with findings reviewed by Senate leadership, who will make a unanimous decision on any violations and potential sanctions. Additionally, the resolution mandates annual financial interest statements for Senators and certain employees, as well as annual training on ethical behavior. Any amendments to these rules must receive majority approval from elected Senators and go through the Rules Committee.