LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - Almost two months have passed since Morrilton Police issued Arkansas Ethics Commission Chairman Paul Dumas a citation for domestic battery. Now a state lawmaker responds.
Thursday, Arkansas Senate President Pro Tem, Paul Bookout, addressed a need for policy change. Bookout says he will work with the governor to create legislation giving oversight powers to appointed boards and committees.
"From time to time there may be instances where we need to look at the policy, so that we can be sure that the image and respect and the reputation of these boards and commissions aren't diminished by some poor behavior by one member," says Bookout.
Bookout says 99 percent of the time, appointed officials in Arkansas have a clean record and serve the state well, but it is important to have procedures to hold those who diminish the image of the state, accountable.
"Certainly you need to evaluate all issues like this on a broader scale and certainly not pointing fingers but maybe that is an area that I'm open to certainly looking at and would be planning on discussing that with the governor," says Bookout.
Bookout was quick to point out he appreciates all the Arkansas volunteers who serve the state on boards and commissions.
The legislative session does not begin until next February.