January 30, 2009

Governor Markell Boosts Confidence in State Government

Executive Order No. 1 cracks down on gifts from lobbyists, vendors

WILMINGTON - Gov. Jack Markell signed his first executive order Friday, limiting the acceptance of gifts from lobbyists by members of his administration. Under the executive order, members of Delaware's executive branch are also limited from accepting gifts from vendors and potential vendors to state government.

"When selecting my cabinet and staff, I choose men and women of integrity who have an unwavering commitment to serve the citizens of Delaware," Markell said. "While I do not believe any member of my team would be inappropriately influenced by attending a sporting event or a golf outing, I think it is important to send the signal to all Delawareans that we will not be accepting such invitations. Last year I promised to limit the acceptance of gifts from lobbyists and, starting today, there will be no more Eagles tickets, no more Phillies tickets, no more rounds of golf paid for by lobbyists."

Members of the executive branch will still be allowed to accept invitations to and attend publicly advertised or regularly scheduled functions of civic organizations and trade associations. For example, the executive order would also allow a member of the executive branch to attend the Goodwill Luncheon or events at the State Fair. The order would also allow a member of the executive branch to accept reasonably priced drinks or meals in the course of their official duties.

"Today's executive order should give the public more confidence that my administration is doing everything we can to ensure that tax dollars are spent as effectively and efficiently as possible," Markell said.