Bill > A616

This bill requires members of independent State authorities, which are public entities like boards or commissions that operate somewhat separately from the main state government departments, to report any contractual relationships between their relatives and the authority to the State Ethics Commission. "Relatives" are broadly defined to include spouses, domestic partners, parents, children, siblings, and other close family members, whether related by blood, marriage, or adoption. Members must report these relationships within 30 days of their appointment if a relative already has a contract, or within 30 days of a new contract being formed. If a contract already exists when the bill becomes law, the member has 30 days from the enactment date to report it. Failure to comply can result in removal from office and financial penalties, with higher penalties if the member knew or should have known about the violation.