U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) voted today in favor of H. Res. 451 which requires the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct to initiate an investigation within 30 days if any Member of the House of Representatives in indicted. If the Committee does not empanel an investigative subcommittee, they are required to submit a report to the House explaining why they have declined to do so.  Larsen also voted today in favor of H. Res. 452 which directs the House Ethics Committee to investigate alleged illegal conduct and violation of House rules by Representative William J. Jefferson. Larsen released the following statement:

“Tonight, I voted to ensure that any time a Member of Congress is indicted, the House takes prompt action in response.  This is a common sense step to ensure that we, as Members of Congress, are held to the highest ethical standards.  Under Democratic leadership, this Congress is committed to safeguarding the integrity of the institution and making sure that Members of Congress are held accountable for their actions.”

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