Gov. Minner signs Executive Order requiring gifts to cabinet, senior officials be posted on Governor’s web site
Dover – Governor Ruth Ann Minner signed Executive Order No. 8 today, setting ethical standards for financial disclosures for her senior staff, cabinet appointees and division directors.
This provision will go beyond the current statute, requiring cabinet officials and senior staff to submit disclosures for gifts received every three months. For the first time, these disclosures will then be posted on Governor Minner’s web site for public review.
“I would like my Administration to maintain an open door policy where Delawareans can remain confident that they are receiving full and complete information and access to government,” Governor Minner said. “Similarly, last week I announced my support of legislation that would strengthen the public notification process for environmental releases and violations, because I strongly believe that the people of Delaware have a right to know about the workings of this Administration.”
John Flaherty of Common Cause Delaware said, “Governor Minner has a longstanding reputation for making government more accessible. I certainly applaud the governor and her efforts to make public business open and accessible to all citizens.”
Under current state ethics laws, gifts exceeding $250 must be disclosed to the Public Integrity Commission annually. Executive Order No. 9, which replaces two Carper Executive Orders, will require these disclosures be made on the first day of April, July, October and January.
