Ethics-reform initiative would bring needed change

There may be some truth to it, but I find that argument ironic as all get out, given that the public has clamored for some time for meaningful ethics reform, and the Utah Legislature, with years and years to deliver up something meaningful, has pretty much said, "Nope." The Legislature has passed up many opportunities to forge its own real reform. Even as the demands have increased, efforts have been mostly token.

I'm betting this next legislative session will be different. Just maybe, if they get serious, they can look their constituents in the eyes and say honestly that the initiative isn't needed. They did it themselves.

I think one thing is clear: The public wants real ethics reform, whether in this form or another. Too often, lawmakers have seemed to hold themselves above us, rather than accountable to us. One positive that I think may have come from the trials of the past year and its economic upheaval has been a willingness on the part of John Q. Public to finally say "enough" with conviction.

Next, I hope someone goes after carve-outs that allow lawmakers, especially Congress, to inflict laws upon us while excusing themselves from living by them.

Deseret News staff writer Lois M. Collins may be reached by e-mail at lois@desnews.com. Follow her on Twitter at loisco.