NEW ORLEANS - As investigations continue into allegations of wrongdoing in Jefferson Parish government, some JP-based lawmakers hope to create new deterrents for public corruption across the state.
Rep. Tony Ligi (R-Metairie) is set to introduce a measure that would cut out some benefits for any public official convicted of a public corruption crime.
"If you commit one of those acts associated with your office, during your term in office, then you would forfeit the publicly funded portion of your pension," Ligi said.
Under the proposal, elected or appointed officials convicted of corruption felonies like bribery, extortion, or money laundering, would be banned from receiving retirement pay.
Ligi brought up a similar measure in 2008, but it died on the House floor.
He's counting on plenty of backing this time around though, from lawmakers like Rep. John Labruzzo (R-Metairie), who co-authored the bill and will also file a separate, yet similar proposal.
"I think if you are an elected official, you should be held to a higher standard,” Labruzzo said.“I mean, you are endowed with the people's trust, to handle the people's business, and if you're using your office to enrich yourself, your family, or your friends, there should be a strict penalty for that."
The measures would require constitutional amendments, and would ultimately have to be approved by a vote of the people.
While Labruzzo and Ligi both feel confident in public support, they expect some resistance in Baton Rouge, where they would need support from two-thirds of the legislature.
"There will be opposition,” Ligi said.“In fact, I've already been approached by one of the associations who are concerned about it, and I've just said, 'Look, this bill is aimed at combating pre-meditated crimes of greed.'"
During his first attempt, Ligi faced resistance from those who said his proposal could hurt families of any officials affected by the law, but he says the new version would allow a widow to receive survivor benefits.
Both lawmakers we spoke with believe the time may be right for passage, as the state continues its push for reform.
"I think, with what's going on, I think we have a better chance than ever to get this passed. It's been defeated in the past, but I think the air is right," Labruzzo said.
