Bill > HR0006

This resolution amends the House Rules to establish and define the responsibilities of the House Ethics Panel in Vermont. The resolution requires the House Rules Committee to appoint a five-member Ethics Panel at the beginning of each biennium, which will elect a chair and develop procedures for handling ethics complaints. The Panel is tasked with advising members on ethical standards, providing training, receiving and investigating complaints against House members, and potentially recommending disciplinary actions. Members must now submit a disclosure form detailing their board memberships, positions, potential remuneration, and employer. The Panel is granted significant investigative powers, including the ability to subpoena witnesses and documents with a four-member vote. The resolution also includes strict confidentiality provisions, allowing information disclosure only in specific circumstances such as court orders or law enforcement investigations. Additionally, the Panel must issue an annual report detailing the number and general topics of complaints, and the resolution explicitly prohibits retaliation against individuals who report or cooperate in ethics investigations. The overall goal is to promote transparency, ethical conduct, and public confidence in the House of Representatives.

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.R.6