DE HR4

Establishes permanent rules and procedures for the Delaware House of Representatives Ethics Committee to investigate and adjudicate allegations of violations of the Rules of Legislative Conduct by House members.

Complaints must be filed in writing under oath by House members only and must identify the respondent, specify alleged violations by count, and include supporting facts and documents.

Ethics Committee conducts preliminary inquiry and may issue statement of alleged violations; respondent has 20 calendar days to answer or file motions, with failure to respond constituting admission of violation.

Committee holds two-phase disciplinary hearing: phase one determines if violations are proved by clear and convincing evidence; phase two determines appropriate sanctions including suspension, expulsion, censure, reprimand, fine, or other sanctions.

Procedures allow for House consideration if Committee dismisses charges with dissenting votes; suspension or expulsion requires two-thirds vote of House members; respondent and public have access to proceedings after statement of alleged violations is served.