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.
