Court-appointed job ethics bill wins early approval

By Bill Sizemore
The Virginian-Pilot
© February 2, 2010

An ethics-reform bill aimed at barring state lawmakers from taking a lucrative court-appointed job overseeing the disposition of estates is breezing toward passage in the House of Delegates.

HB 664, introduced by Del. Tom Gear, R-Hampton, won preliminary approval Monday with no debate and no audible dissent. It is up for final House passage today.

The measure would prohibit members of the General Assembly or members of their law firms from serving as local commissioners of accounts. Commissioners are appointed by local circuit judges, who are appointed by the Assembly.

If the bill becomes law, state Sen. Tommy Norment, R-James City County, the only lawmaker now serving as a commissioner, would have to give up the post, along with several members of his law firm. Norment reported $120,000 in income from the part-time job last year.

Gear expressed mild surprise after Monday's vote at the lack of opposition. He said he is uncertain of the bill's chances in the Senate.

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