Tuesday, August 21, 2012
The major issue for lawmakers is the ethical issue.
In the Primary Election just held, a question on the ballot dealt with the issue of money paid by lobbyists to members of the General Assembly. I am on record being in favor of making major changes to the way reporting is done and the amount of money allowed to be given from lobbyists to lawmakers. We are hearing that the leadership in the House of Representatives under the Gold Dome is now open to looking at legislation to place a cap on the amount that can be received by lawmakers. We are moving in a positive direction as this has been a goal I have held for many years. The major issue, however, is not the amount of money that is allowed to be given, the reporting of the money, or where the money comes from and how the votes will be …
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
How are we supposed to feel safe with the government or a quasi-government board overseeing casinos when they can't control ethics in government?
In the Primary Election on July 31, the voters requesting a Republican ballot will have five non-binding straw poll questions to determine the opinion of the voters. I view the five questions on the ballot dealing with public policy issues from a moral perspective. Question number 1 is: “Should Georgia have casino gambling with funds going to education?” My answer for this question will be no. Across the country there is a major push taking place to increase gambling outlets. Like a fast food restaurant being placed on every corner, the marketing concept is the more outlets, the more money can be raked into the accounts of the casino owners. We are supposed to feel safe, however, with the promise that the government or a quasi-government …
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
We get what we pay for.
This is a warning to any who have a weak heart, think that all politicians are crooks, dishonest, or con men, and find it hard to deal with controversial subjects this column will shock you. On the issue of ethics in government and holding our elected officials to a higher code of conduct, much is being made about asking the office seekers to sign a pledge to work for ethics reform allowing for no more than a $100 gift from lobbyists. There is currently a requirement that any campaign contribution for more than $100 must have the name of the giver disclosed. The officeholder or anyone seeking office must adhere to this rule. I am an advocate for ethics reform at all levels of government. The longer I have observed the political world, the…
