The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled that state and local officials may accept gifts and payments for past favors without violating federal anti-corruption laws. In a 6-3 decision, the justices overturned the conviction of a former Indiana mayor who received a $13,000 payment from a local truck dealership after helping them secure city contracts. The court distinguished between bribery (requiring proof of an illegal deal) and gratuities (gifts or rewards for past actions). While officials can still be charged with bribery, accepting money for past favors without evidence of an illicit deal is no longer a crime under federal law. This ruling could impact approximately 20 million local and state officials, including those at hospitals and universities receiving federal funds. However, dissenting justices expressed concern about the integrity of public institutions when officials use their positions for private gain.
Supreme Court wipes out anti-corruption law that bars officials from taking gifts for past favors
Court’s conservative majority said the law in question was a “bribery statute, not a gratuities law.” Kavanaugh said t.co/vVFCBF5PLf
— Steve Gruber (@stevegrubershow) June 27, 2024
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