Bill barring outside work in executive branch passes Senate

SALT LAKE CITY — A bill prompted by Utah Attorney General John Swallow's outside consulting work unanimously passed the state Senate on Wednesday.

SB83 would restrict outside employment for management-level workers in the state's executive branch, specifically the offices of governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, treasurer and auditor. It would require those offices to have policies to prevent conflicts of interest with employees' job duties, the practice of law and political services, consulting and lobbying.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Todd Weiler, R-Wood Cross, does not preclude those employees from working a second job provided it doesn't conflict with their state duties and it's done on their own time.

While chief deputy, Swallow received $23,500 for working as a consultant on a cement plant project in Nevada. Weiler said his bill would prevent that type of work.

The bill now moves to the House.

E-mail: romboy@desnews.com, Twitter: dennisromboy