The Argus Leader has information on a new four-paragraph code of conduct which was unanimously approved by the Legislative Research Council yesterday.
The code of conduct comes in response to concerns after allegations that Senator Dan Sutton's inappropriately touched a male page in his hotel room, and former Rep. Ted Klaudt was found to be performing sexually disgusting acts on his foster-daughters.
The code says legislators have "a solemn responsibility to avoid improper behavior and refrain from conduct that is unbecoming to the Legislature." It requires compliance with conflict of interest and campaign finance laws and prohibits 'any and all ... harassment or offensive conduct."
It also requires:
That legislators follow the constitution and laws regarding conflicts of interest and be on time with filings such as campaign finance reports.
That legislators "avoid any conflict of interest or the appearance of any conflict of interest."
That the Legislature "strengthen and sustain an atmosphere of professional conduct and civility" among members and staff and "not tolerate harassment or offensive behavior based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age or disability."
That lawmakers must refrain from sexual harassment, including unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favors and "other verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexually harassing nature."
As I've said before, I don't think a code of conduct or code of ethics is going to accomplish much. I don't think it will prevent the kind of bad behavior that's caused discussion of a code, and it won't make dealing with such behavior any easier.
But if it makes some people feel good, and more importantly doesn't cost much to implement, then I suppose it's alright.
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