Summary of HB5403 - Code of Ethics Revisions

• Establishes an independent Office of State Ethics to replace the State Ethics Commission, with a nine-member Citizen's Ethics Advisory Board appointed by legislative leaders and the Governor.

• Raises the lobbying registration threshold from $2,000 to $3,000 in combined compensation, reimbursement, or expenditures in a calendar year.

• Expands quasi-public agencies covered under ethics rules to include Bradley Board of Directors, Connecticut Transportation Strategy Board, University of Connecticut Health Center Finance Corporation, and Tweed-New Haven Airport Authority.

• Adds several new gift exclusions including admission to charitable or civic events for candidates for public office and training provided by vendors for products purchased by state agencies.

• Requires executive branch and quasi-public agency officials and employees to sign certifications acknowledging ethics prohibitions prior to taking office or employment, effective October 1, 2010.