As the Kansas House of Representatives prepared to end its special session last week, two legislators—one Democrat, one Republican; one black, one white; one from academia, one from law enforcement—showed that civility remains an important ideal and that legislatures can be the perfect forum to start challenging conversations.

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What if, instead of being irritated that our busy schedules have come to a screeching halt and looking for ways to entertain ourselves, that we actually stop and take inventory of our lives? Where are we now? Where are we going? Who’s important to us? What’s important to us? What if we lost everything that we thought would bring us happiness (health and wealth)? What would we have left?

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The decision, which affirmed the lower court’s ruling, may signal how First Amendment doctrine limits public officials’ use of social media in other contexts as well.

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In a decision that could have impacted dozens of states’ ethics laws, the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld Kentucky provisions that prohibited legislators from accepting gifts or campaign contributions from restricted sources.

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ethics, kentucky, campaign contributions

Daryl Dixon was just a child when Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Unfamiliar with who this man was, never mind what he fought for, Dixon attended the funeral with his family members. That day, after learning about King and his dream for equality and inclusiveness, Dixon, founder of the Diversity Resource Group, left with one question: If someone so liked and revered could be assassinated, what does that mean for the rest of us?

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Los Angeles—Protecting the legislative institution requires ethical decision-making by those who work in the legislature.

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A news story involving an individual—whether it be a TV show host, playwright, CEO or even a hacker—accused of sexual harassment or misconduct has been a virtual daily occurrence since the allegations against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein surfaced in October. Legislators, both state and federal, also have been subject to allegations.

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Most Americans agree our politics have become less civil since the November elections—70 percent according to an NPR/PBS/Marist public opinion poll released this summer.

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With the ever-present social media, the lines between what is permissible “sharing” of photos and videos can become blurred. Just ask Washington Representative Melanie Stambaugh (R).

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Ethics-related developments are popping up on several fronts, not the least of which is President Donald Trump’s decision to grant ethics waivers to 17 appointees, including four former lobbyists, who work for him and Vice President Mike Pence.

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