State Rep. Jerry Neyer on Thursday spearheaded the House passage of his plan to strengthen accountability within state government by closing the revolving door between lawmakers and lobbyists. The legislation passed with bipartisan support.

“Integrity, transparency, and accountability; that’s what this bill package promotes,” said Neyer during a speech on the House floor. “From the executive to the legislative branch, we as public servants have a duty to represent our constituents, not line up future lobbying jobs.”

Neyer said his plan is meant to prevent a concerning trend where lawmakers and other high-ranking state officials leave office and quickly secure high-paying lobbying jobs. Some legislators have even been caught lobbying in other states while still serving in Michigan’s Legislature – a practice that would be banned under Neyer’s House Bill 4064.

Also included in the package are HBs 4062 and 4063, which would prohibit a state representative or senator and directors of state departments from becoming a lobbyist within two years after leaving office.

“Lawmakers shouldn’t be paid by outside interest groups to lobby policy issues in Washington D.C. and other states while serving the people of Michigan,” said Neyer, R-Shepherd. “Our plan would clarify the vague transition periods between public and private service. Lawmakers were elected to serve their communities; it’s frankly embarrassing that we even have to make a law banning these unethical practices. It should be common sense; we’re here to work for the people, not leverage our positions for personal gain.”

HBs 4062-4064 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

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