Mayes Backs Reform Plan to Hold Lawmakers Accountable

State Government Reforms Headed Yo Senate

March 26, 2009
By: MyBayCity Staff

State Representative Jeff Mayes (D-Bay City) has voted for a plan that will bring much-needed reform to state government and hold legislators accountable. The plan now heads to the Senate.

"For too long, our residents have felt that Lansing wasn't working for them," Mayes said. "That's why this plan is so important, it encourages transparency and accountability that are needed to help restore our citizens' faith in state government. Today's vote was a key step toward a better and more accountable government for the people of Michigan."

The Michigan House has passed three measures that will:

· Prohibit legislators from becoming lobbyists for two years after leaving office, effectively ending the revolving door between lawmakers and lobbying firms.

· Dock lawmakers' pay each time they miss a day of session with an unexcused absence.

· Require certain state officials and candidates for elected office to disclose their personal finances to the Bureau of Elections.

The measures are part of an ongoing effort by Mayes and his colleagues to bring much-needed reform to state government. In February, the House passed a plan to cut the salaries of lawmakers and other elected officials by 10 percent. That legislation is awaiting action in the Senate.

"Our residents deserve to know that lawmakers are working on their behalf and not angling for their next job," Mayes said. "With our unemployment rate at 12 percent, legislators need to be focused on turning Michigan's economy around and getting our workers back on the job. I'm pleased that we've seen such strong support for this plan from both parties and I urge the Senate to move quickly on this plan."