Duval Times

The House of Representatives has approved a bipartisan bill introduced by Senators Rick Scott and Jacky Rosen, which aims to penalize corrupt politicians and safeguard taxpayer funds. The legislation, known as the No Congressionally Obligated Recurring Revenue Used As Pensions to Incarcerated Officials Now (No CORRUPTION) Act, is now awaiting the president's signature to become law.

This bill addresses a loophole in existing laws that allows former members of Congress convicted of felonies to continue receiving their pensions during prolonged appeals processes. Under current regulations, these individuals only forfeit their pensions after all appeals are exhausted. The new legislation seeks to ensure that pensions are immediately revoked following a felony conviction related to official duties.

Senator Rick Scott stated, “If you are a Member of Congress and convicted of a crime involving public corruption you should lose all pension benefits provided to you by taxpayers and hardworking families—period.” He emphasized the importance of reforms that address governmental dysfunction and hold elected officials accountable while protecting taxpayer money.

Senator Jacky Rosen commented on the longstanding issue, saying, “For too long, corrupt Washington politicians have been exploiting a loophole in the system to continue to collect taxpayer-funded pensions even after they have been convicted of felonies.” She expressed pride in the passage of this legislation through both chambers and reiterated her commitment to finding solutions that protect citizens' finances.

The proposed change has been described as "commonsense" by both senators and marks an effort to enhance accountability within government operations.