State Rep. Jerry Neyer on Thursday offered key testimony that secured committee passage of his plan to strengthen the accountability of state government by closing the revolving door between lawmakers and lobbyists. The legislation passed the House Government Operations Committee along party lines.

“We’re here to represent our communities, not line up future job opportunities,” said Neyer, R-Shepherd. “I’d love to believe that all lawmakers never put themselves first, but after years of watching people go to sleep legislators and wake up lobbyists, something had to be done.”

Neyer said his plan is meant to prevent a concerning trend where lawmakers and other high-ranking state officials leave office and quickly secure high-paying lobbying jobs. Some legislators have even been caught lobbying in other states while still serving in Michigan’s Legislature – a deeply morally questionable choice that would be banned under Neyer’s House Bill 4064.

“It’s refreshing to see committee members recognize the importance of getting this legislation passed and signed into law as soon as possible,” Neyer said. “The sooner we get this done, the sooner my fellow lawmakers will stop flirting with lobbying groups in hopes of landing a job.”

Also included in the legislative package are HBs 4062 and 4063, which would prohibit a state representative or senator and directors of state departments from becoming a lobbyist within two years after leaving office.

HBs 4062-4064 will now move to the full House for further consideration.

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