U.S. Rep. Lincoln Davis today cast his first vote of the 110th Congress to reform House ethical standards by banning gifts and travel financed by lobbyists. Reforming House rules was the first step by the new Congress to ensure that this institution upholds the highest ethical standards.

“After last year’s scandals America’s trust in Congress dropped to new lows,” said Davis. “You can’t legislate honesty, but you can enact rules that bring credibility and integrity back to Congress. We have a moral and personal obligation to be held to the highest of standards. I applaud and fully support these changes to the rules.”

Reformed House rules

Ban Gifts from Lobbyists: Bans gifts, including meals and tickets, from lobbyists and the organizations that employ them.

Bans Lobbyist Travel: Bans lobbyists and the organizations that employ them from financing travel for Members or staff, except for one-day travel to attend a forum, participate in a panel, or give a speech, all which must be pre-approved by the Ethics Committee.

Mandates Ethics Training: Mandatory ethics training annually for all House employees.

Prohibits use of Company Planes: Prohibits the use of official, personal or campaign funds to pay for the use of non-commercial, corporate jets.