Tennessee ethics bill summary

Michael Silence has posted this handy guide to the ethics bill [1] being worked out by the Tennessee Legislature.

Maybe I don't understand, but some of the proposed amendments seem to loosen the rules. Such as:

Shortens "revolving door“ provision keeping lawmakers and state officials from becoming lobbyists to six months rather than one year.

Removes lobbyist requirements for municipalities, city governments, county governments and school boards.

Removes the requirement that the registration information of at least 2 percent of employers of lobbyists be audited.

Removes new provisions regarding unpaid loans to political campaigns.

Removes ban on lobbyists making campaign contributions to or hosting campaign events for candidates running for state office.

Most of the rest of it sounds pretty reasonable, I guess. Frankly, I haven't been following it because it seems like a waste of time. It’s already illegal to take bribes and kickbacks. I don't see why we can't just have officials swear an oath to uphold the laws and the constitution, and put public and taxpayer interest ahead of any personal or special interests and to not vote on any measure in which they have a conflict of interest. Then seek out and prosecute any violators.