House committee approves bills cracking down on ethics

A Missouri House committee approved four bills that deal with ethics in a hearing Monday.

House Speaker Todd Richardson says ethics is a top priority this session. The push follows the resignations in 2015 of two former lawmakers accused of inappropriate behavior toward interns.

State Representative Caleb Rowden sponsoredHB1575 andHB1979 which were both approved today.

HB1575would require officials to timely disclose lodging and travel expenses incurred by the official, the official’s spouse, the official’s family that are paid by a third person for expenses.

HB1979woulddelay when lawmakers and others can become lobbyists after leaving office

HB1452 andHB1983 were also approved Monday.

Committee approval is one of the first steps needed to move the legislation forward.

House Speaker Todd Richardson said in a statement, “the four bills approved Monday afternoon represent a solid first step that will make elected officials more transparent and accountable.