Today, Assemblyman Angelo J. Morinello (R,C,I,Ref-Niagara Falls) joined his Assembly Minority colleagues in presenting a package of ethics reforms, which will focus on creating greater transparency within state government. The package includes legislation that would create greater oversight of state economic development programs, end bid-rigging and place term limits on legislative leaders and committee chairs.

“Ensuring there is a constant flow of fresh ideas and new approaches is crucial for good governing,” said Morinello. “Entrenchment is a huge problem in Albany and the stagnation it causes is a disservice to the residents of New York. Vital bills are held up in the legislative process each year due to committee chairs, who have served for decades, refusing to change their ways. The legislation my colleagues and I have presented will help alleviate this issue.”

Today’s ethics package also included legislation aimed at increasing transparency in the bidding process surrounding economic development and grants the state comptroller increased power. This legislation would allow the comptroller, with coordination of the commissioners of Economic Development and Taxation and Finance, the ability to review and audit all economic development projects within the state.

“Each component of the package introduced is aimed at protecting the best interests of our constituents,” said Morinello. “Adding additional layers of checks on future economic development will allow increased transparency and a better sense of accountability for the parties involved.”