Kirk Seeks To Tighten Rules For Felons, Congressional Pensions
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Republican lawmakers have teamed up to expanded the law which block the congressional pensions from convicted felons.
As WBBM Newsradio 780's John Cody reports, U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) proposes adding 20 crimes – including tax fraud, racketeering and money laundering – to the 10 crimes that can already cost federal lawmakers their pensions if convicted.
"Our law also expands this to say that you would lose your pension if you are convicted of a felony as any elected official – in other words, if a member of Congress went to another elected office and violated their public trust," Kirk said.
LISTEN: Newsradio 780's John Cody reports
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Kirk joined U.S. Rep. Robert Dold (R-Ill.) in introducing the measure, saying pension payouts to convicted felons currently costs U.S. taxpayers $800,000 a year.
