A push to ban all gifts for lawmakers at the state Capitol continues..
In the midst of a scandal which involved four Philadelphia Representatives, the state senate voted to ban cash gifts to public employees in April.
Some Pennsylvania lawmakers are saying enough is enough..
“I’ve been offered certain things such as tickets to football games that I`ve not accepted because I don`t think that`s the right thing for us to do as legislature,” says Repsentative Stephen Bloom.
After recent allegations that four Philadelphia Representatives accepted cash from a confidential informant – the issue of public officials receiving gifts is now in focus.
“It`s about time it`s long overdue with this unfortunate situation with the investigation in Philadelphia we finally have the legislative momentum to get it done,” says Rep. Bloom.
The government reform caucus urged action on several bills that would limit or ban public officials from accepting gifts and cash from lobbyists.
In April, the state senate passed a ban on all cash gifts – and Tuesday the push continues to ban all gifts for public employees.
“We want to make sure that the laws are updated, the thresholds for reporting are lowered and that there be full disclosure of what is accepted and that way it`s all transparent,” says Sen. Rob Teplitz.
One of the thresholds that would be lowered includes any expense for transportation, lodging, and hospitality.
Anything valued over $100 must be reported – the current threshold is set at $650.
Lawmakers say the bills are a few examples of how they are trying to create more transparency in government.
“A black eye for one is a black eye for all and I think a lot of us would like to correct that,” says Rep. George Dunbar.
A press conference will take place at noon Tuesday.
Officials want to pass a blanket law before lawmakers go into summer session.
Stay with FOX43 for updates.