In a 2010 interview with the Associated Press, Driver admitted that he had for years double-billed his campaign account and taxpayers for luxury hotels, travel, meals and other expenses — something he said he did not believe was illegal. Driver's candor allowed the Travis County district attorney to move forward with a case.
According to ethics watchdogs, Driver's admission was unique though his crime wasn't. Lax disclosure rules make it possible for lawmakers to double dip without being detected. Those rules need to be tightened.The Austin Statesman has a similar editorial. And the Dallas Morning News. And WFAA. Amen to them all.
They mention a bill filed last year that would strip the pension of any lawmaker who committed a felony. Currently Joe Driver after admitting to a felony not only can keep his job, he keeps his $57,000/year and health care for life. Unfortunately the Tea Bag Party blocked the bill. Republicans talk a tough game when it comes to being "tough on crime" but puss out when the time comes to actually be tough on crime.
The Joe Driver bill will be brought up at the Sunset Review of the Texas Ethics Commission in April. It will be refiled and if the republicans are still in control, they will kill it to protect the remaining Legislators who are trying to hind their baloney and secretly pay back their double dippings.
Republicans aren't stupid.
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