23-05-2025
‘The Light Switch,' Episode 7: A smatter of ethics
Here's something you don't hear much: 'Boy, Louisiana is just TOO ethical.'
Political corruption has been our brand for a Long time – pun intended. There are few corners of the state that haven't been touched by greed, envy and every other sticky finger of those in power.
This sordid history serves as the backdrop for what would be a very significant rewriting of Louisiana's ethics laws, with Gov. Jeff Landry behind the pen.
In this episode of 'The Light Switch,' senior reporter Julie O'Donoghue walks us through just a few of the changes being proposed. They include increasing the limits on gifts for elected officials and government employees, ranging from the governor down to your local building inspector.
Read Julie's coverage of the ethics proposals lawmakers are considering:
Confidential complaints against elected officials, gov't workers might be eliminated
Lawmakers might lift limits on gifts to officials, gov't employees
As charges linger over Landry, Louisiana House votes to overhaul ethics investigations
Also weighing in on the ethics topic is Steven Procopio, president of the Public Affairs Research Council. The 75-year-old good government group doesn't take stands on legislation, but its leader says he's concerned about the possible changes in the works.
For our News from the States segment, we head to Indiana where there are changes in store for the naturalization ceremonies where new U.S. citizens take their citizenship oaths. Reporter Leslie Bonilla Muñiz with the Indiana Capital Chronicle explains how some traditions are being eliminated – and why.
Read Leslie's coverage of the naturalization changes.
Listen to Episode 7 of 'The Light Switch' on and
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