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In 2007, the Greenburgh Town Board adopted a law prohibiting incumbent elected officials from accepting campaign contributions from developers, contractors, lawyers, agents. The article reports that Greenburgh is one of only three government entities in New York State that have enacted such a law.
"I am pleased that Nassau is considering adopting a law similar to the ethics code that the town has had in place since 2007" says Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner. "The town ethics code, considered by many to be the toughest law in the United States is designed to ban legalized bribery. Since lawmakers are not able to accept contributions from developers, lawyers, contractors, consultants who do business with the town or who want approvals – we do what is in the interests of the community, and are not influenced by campaign donations. I hope that the county of Westchester will also consider adopting a similar law."
If Nassau County adopts an anti pay-to-play law, it has the potential to generate momentum and push other municipalities to follow their lead and prevent officials from giving contracts to major campaign donors. Across the state, several elected officials have found themselves in hot water for casting votes in favor of campaign contributions and for issuing substantial contracts to vendors.
To read the full article via Newsday, click here.
