RI Lobbyist Conflict of Interest Law
Show your support by signing this petition now
The recent nomination of George Caruolo as Chairman of the RI Board of Regents, to oversee our state's K-12 education system, raised an important "clean government" issue when it became known that Mr. Caruolo also serves as a lobbyist for the Twin River Gambling Casino, an organization that seeks public funding and favor from the RI General Assembly and from the Executive Branch.
OSPRI believes it is a clear conflict of interest for any high level government appointee, especially the chairman of an important commission, who is confirmed by the General Assembly to simultaneously serve as a lobbyist - on other matters - to the Office that appointed him or to that same General Assembly. This loop-hole in our state law must be closed.
Rhode Island's education system requires major reform, and potential conflicts of interest should never stand in the way of educating our children.
Per RI's own Constitution, Article III Section 7, Ethical Conduct: The people of the State of Rhode Island believe that public officials and employees must adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct ... and ... avoid the appearance of impropriety and not use their position for private gain or advantage.
The very idea of a senior official in the administration simultaneously serving as a paid lobbyist advocating for a client before the very legislature or executive offices he visits regularly in the course of his official duties just screams out potential conflict of interest.
Regardless of how well intentioned or high minded that person may be, the question will always be there: at this moment is he representing his clients or his governmental office?
By signing this petition, you are sending a message to elected officials that new legislation should be enacted to close this loophole and eliminate this potential conflict.
This common sense reform is a non-partisan issue, leads to better and more open government, and will limit the power of special interest groups in Rhode Island.
Bi-partisan Bills have been submitted in the RI House of Representatives and a similar bill is expected in the Senate. To view these bills, go to http://www.rivotes.org and search for Bill # H 5341.
Our goal is to obtain 10,000 e-signatures. Here's how YOU can help us spread the word:
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Please sign this petition today and be as aggressive as you can in helping us to obtain more signatures. Thank you.
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OSPRI is Rhode Island's leading research and outreach organization for advancing free-market solutions to solve our state's most important educational and economic issues.
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