House ethics panel finds “substantial reason” to suspect auto-dealer congressman...

House ethics panel finds “substantial reason” to suspect auto-dealer congressman of conflict of interest

Congress’ independent ethics review board believes there is “substantial reason” to think a Texas congressman violated conflict-of-interest rules by pushing legal changes that could have benefitted his auto dealership.

The House Ethics Committee released on Thursday a report from the Office of Congressional Ethics detailing findings from an investigation into Rep. Roger Williams (R-Texas). The investigation was prompted after Williams proposed a measure last year to exempt auto dealers from a rule prohibiting companies from renting or loaning cars subject to safety recalls if rentals aren’t their primary source of business.

Williams’ auto dealership, the panel found, appear to fit that description, leading to the conclusion that his “personal financial interest in his auto dealership may be perceived as having influenced his performance of official duties.” The House Ethics Committee said they would continue reviewing the matter.

Williams has not tried to hide his personal connection to the auto industry. In fact, he noted on the House floor as he was promoting his amendment that: “I am a second-generation auto dealer. I have been in the industry most of my life. I know it well.”

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https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2016/08/11/house-ethics-panel-finds-substantial-reason-to-suspect-auto-dealer-congressman-of-conflict-of-interest/