McAuliffe vetoes money for ethics panel

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Gov. Terry McAuliffe is vetoing money for a newly created ethics advisory commission.

McAuliffe said at a news conference Friday on his line-item vetoes for the state budget that the commission was unnecessary because he plans on introducing stricter ethics legislation.

Lawmakers created the Virginia Conflicts of Interest and Ethics Advisory Commission this year in response to the gift scandal that enveloped former Gov. Bob McDonnell, who is awaiting trial on corruption charges.

McAuliffe said lawmakers should adhere to the $100 gift ban he set for himself, his staff and his family. The new ethics law prevents lawmakers from accepting gifts worth more than $250 from lobbyists, but excludes trips and dinners.

The General Assembly will decide Monday whether to override the veto.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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