Rep. Johnson Votes for Congressional Ethics Office

Press Release

Congressman Hank Johnson, a member of the House Judiciary Committee, voted to create an Office of Congressional Ethics (H.Res. 895). The independent body would have the authority to initiate investigations of Representatives, though the power to punish would remain with the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct.

"Transparency is important and citizens must feel confident in the investigative process," said Rep. Johnson. "By establishing an independent office to review allegations we will restore public faith in the system and hopefully, strengthen the process overall."

Ethics Office members would be appointed to four year terms and Members of Congress and registered lobbyists are specifically excluded. The Speaker and the Minority Leader would jointly appoint three members each.

Source