Charleston Reporter

Rep. Craig emphasized the importance of holding public officials accountable, stating, “Public officials should be held to the highest ethical and legal standards – not be immune from them.” She introduced the bipartisan Gifts for Officials, Legislators and Delegates (GOLD) Standard Act to strengthen federal bribery law, aiming to broaden the definition of an “official act” to make it easier to prosecute public officials.

Rep. Mace's office expressed the need to restore trust in government institutions, stating, "By cosponsoring this bill, we aim to close loopholes and strengthen the definition of 'official act,' ensuring that public officials, no matter who, are held accountable for their actions and restoring faith in the integrity of our democracy."

Rep. Sorensen highlighted the importance of prioritizing the communities they serve over financial interests, stating, "I am proud to help introduce the GOLD Standard Act to strengthen anti-corruption standards and ensure Congress works for the people we represent, not outside interests."

Similarly, Rep. Kim stressed the need for leaders to step up and codify anti-bribery legislation into law, stating, "Now more than ever we need leaders who will step up and codify anti-bribery legislation into law."

Various organizations have endorsed the GOLD Standard Act, recognizing its significance in combating corruption. Dylan Hedtler-Gaudette from the Project on Government Oversight commended Rep. Craig and her colleagues for taking an important step towards reforming the honest services fraud statute. Debra Perlin of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington noted that the Act would help ensure public officials cannot trade government power for personal gain, encouraging Congress to pass it swiftly.

Tiffany Muller, President of End Citizens United, highlighted the need to close loopholes in the federal bribery statute to prevent corruption, applauding Congresswoman Craig for her efforts in making Congress more accountable.

The GOLD Standard Act, co-sponsored by Rep. Mace and other representatives, aims to strengthen anti-corruption standards and restore trust in government institutions. It has received endorsements from various organizations and is seen as a crucial step in holding public officials to the highest ethical and legal standards.