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U.S. Congresswoman Claudia Tenney wants to prevent corrupt lawmakers from receiving federal pension once convicted of crimes. She is the representative of the 22nd District of New York. On Monday, Tenney introduced the No Pensions for Corrupt Politicians Act of 2017. The legislation aims to close existing loopholes that allows convicted members of the Congress to collect federal pension. Her bill was in response to the case of former Rep Chaka Fattah and other lawmakers who were found guilty of corruption and other crimes.

Loophole in existing law enables a pervasive culture of corruption

Under the existing law, corrupt politicians could keep getting their federal pension until they use all their legal appeals. It means their federal pensions will only stop when they get a final conviction. In a statement, Tenney said the loophole enables a “pervasive culture of corruption” that becomes a “status quo” among politicians. She added, “The job of a public official is to advocate for their communities and constituents.”  It is not to gain from the office he or she holds. Furthermore, Tenney said, the federal government must immediately revoke the pension of any official who betrays the public trust and is convicted of corruption. Moreover, she emphasized that her legislation will end the loophole that benefits corrupt politicians. According to her, “This bill is the first step of many to reform our government.” It will also “restore the Jeffersonian ideal of the citizen-legislator.” If Tenney’s legislation becomes a law, Fattah will likely become the first member of the Congress to lose his pension. He is currently serving a prison term of ten years. He was found guilty of bribery and corruption in June last year. Fattah is still receiving an annual pension of approximately $55,000 because he is appealing his case.

New York law allows judges to revoke a pension from State officials

In New York, voters approved a similar ballot measure that addresses the pensions of corrupt State government officials. Under the State law, judges have authority to reduce or revoke a pension from a State official convicted of crimes. It will be effective to convictions on or after January 1, 2018.