VERMONT: ETHICS REFORM PACKAGE ADOPTED, NEW PAY-TO-PLAY RESTRICTION

Vermont Governor Phil Scott recently signed an ethics bill establishing a state ethics commission and implementing a number of ethical reforms.

Among the reforms is the adoption of a new “pay-to-play” restriction prohibiting contributions to candidates from certain individuals or businesses seeking government contracts.  This new pay-to-play restriction becomes effective December 16, 2018.

Under the new pay-to-play law, certain entities are prohibited from negotiating or entering into contracts with the state if that entity has made a contribution to a State officer or a candidate for State office with which a contract is sought.  Contracts are prohibited for one year following the contribution and between the execution of the contract and its completion.  This restriction extends to individuals associated with the company.

The ethics reform package also establishes an ethics commission, requires public officials to disclose certain sources of income, creates a one-year “revolving door” restriction and requires municipal governments to adopt conflict of interest policies.

Politicom Law assists large companies with lobbyists who are active throughout the country.  Based in California, the Politicom Law team delivers “empowered compliance” solutions to assist filers with the patchwork of federal, state and local political law mandates, including pay-to-play prohibitions and disclosure.