DE HR4

Establishes permanent ethics procedures for the House of Representatives, governing how the Ethics Committee investigates and processes allegations of violations of Rules of Legislative Conduct.

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.

The Ethics Committee conducts a preliminary inquiry; if it finds reason to believe a violation occurred, it issues a statement of alleged violation to the respondent who has 20 calendar days to respond with answers or motions.

Disciplinary hearings before the Committee occur in two phases: phase one determines if violations are proven by clear and convincing evidence; phase two determines appropriate sanctions (suspension, expulsion, censure, reprimand, fine, or other sanctions).

If the Committee dismisses all counts, dissenting members may petition the House (with majority approval) to pursue the matter; the House then conducts its own hearing and may impose sanctions, with suspension or expulsion requiring a two-thirds vote.