Editorial Ethics Reform Breakthrough Is Much Needed
Neil Heinen Weighs In On Reform Proposal
Updated: 12:58 pm CST December 15,2006
By Neil Heinen
Editorial DirectorIt is so long overdue that it is difficult to praise its introduction.The Ethics Reform package announced with bipartisan support Thursday carries the stigma of having been forced down the throats of reluctant lawmakers who are signing on only by threat of further citizen revolt.Doesn't make any difference. Better late than never doesn't do it justice. We'll take it. The devil will be in the details, but the proposal contains some of the most important elements of necessary reform, including independent watchdogs with power and resources.But the most important component for us is Gov. Jim Doyle's promise to call a special session of the legislature for January to act on the bill. That is the urgency this legislation deserves and that has been lacking for years.Ultimately, this legislation will be judged by its effectiveness in erasing the legacy of abuses that made it necessary. Indeed it's the only thing that will. We are hopeful the agreement signals a new era of bipartisan commitment to open, honest, ethical government in Wisconsin.What do you think? Give your two cents in Channel 3000's TALKBACK section.
Editorial DirectorIt is so long overdue that it is difficult to praise its introduction.The Ethics Reform package announced with bipartisan support Thursday carries the stigma of having been forced down the throats of reluctant lawmakers who are signing on only by threat of further citizen revolt.Doesn't make any difference. Better late than never doesn't do it justice. We'll take it. The devil will be in the details, but the proposal contains some of the most important elements of necessary reform, including independent watchdogs with power and resources.But the most important component for us is Gov. Jim Doyle's promise to call a special session of the legislature for January to act on the bill. That is the urgency this legislation deserves and that has been lacking for years.Ultimately, this legislation will be judged by its effectiveness in erasing the legacy of abuses that made it necessary. Indeed it's the only thing that will. We are hopeful the agreement signals a new era of bipartisan commitment to open, honest, ethical government in Wisconsin.What do you think? Give your two cents in Channel 3000's TALKBACK section.
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