The creation of a full-time state commission to investigate allegations of misconduct by public officials is one of five priorities set this week by the governor’s task force on ethics reform, according to the Santa Fe New Mexican.
In addition, the committee will concentrate on compensating legislators, restricting campaign contributions and gifts to public officials, and the public financing of campaigns.
The commission would have subpoena power and would be similar to the Judicial Standards Commission, which is charged with investigating allegations of misconduct against judges and petitioning the Supreme Court for discipline when it deems necessary.
The ethics commission would report to the legislature, which would have the power to remove office holders, if necessary.
If the proposal moves forward, the legislature and governor will likely be asked to approve the placing on the ballot of a constitutional amendment similar to the one that created the Judicial Standards Commission, giving voters the final decision on the ethics commission.
It’s a great idea. Many states already have something like this in place.