Ruiz Introduces Ethics Package to Put People Over Profits

Press Release

Today Representative Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-36) introduced legislation to ensure public servants do not use their position to make a profit off the people they serve. The Ruiz Ethics Package includes the Campaign Spending Integrity Act, the Public Service Spending Integrity Act, and the Public Service Transparency Act.

"People shouldn't be allowed to line their pockets when they're in public service or running for office," said Dr. Ruiz. "I was deeply troubled that President Trump paid his own businesses over $8 million in campaign funds, and I'm troubled by the idea that any public servant can use tax dollars to increase their own profits. The public should feel confident that politicians are elected to serve the people, not get rich. My ethics package helps prevent any elected official, regardless of party, from abusing their authority for personal gain."

Dr. Ruiz introduced the bills below to close loopholes that allow candidates and elected officials or their families to profit and increase the transparency of their personal and business interests.

The Campaign Spending Integrity Act prohibits federal candidates from using campaign funds on businesses they or their immediate family members own or control.

The Public Service Spending Integrity Act prohibits federal dollars from being spent on businesses owned or controlled by the President, VP, members of the cabinet, and their immediate family members. This includes federal contracts. It would also prohibit Members of Congress from using their personal office funds on ‎businesses owned or controlled by the Member of Congress or their immediate family.

The Public Service Transparency Act requires candidates for President or Vice President, as well as nominees for cabinet-level positions, and those same officials once they've been elected or confirmed, to release their tax returns.

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