For Immediate Release:  Wednesday, May 3, 2006                                                                     

Contact:  Kimberly Steenhoek, (515) 281-6571

Senate Approves Resolution to Give Oversight Committee Subpoena Powers

DES MOINES – The Senate today approved a resolution, SR 170, giving the Joint Government Oversight Committee subpoena powers as it continues its investigation into the pay scandal at the Central Iowa Employment and Training Consortium (CIETC). 

The resolution allows to the committee to issue subpoenas for up to 90 days. For those who do not appear, the Legislature my impose citations and punishment that range from $500 to up to six months in prison. The committee also may retain outside legal counsel to aid in the investigation.

“So far witnesses have appeared voluntarily, and we hope that they will continue to do so. However, there are still a lot of people we need to hear from and it is important that we have this tool to use if necessary as we continue our investigation over the summer,” said Sen. Ron Wieck (R-Sioux City), who is co-chair of the Joint Government Oversight Committee. “We owe it to the taxpayers to get to the bottom of this scandal and restore accountability in government.”

The Oversight Committee will resume hearings on Monday, May 8 at 1 p.m in the old Supreme Court Chamber at the Statehouse. Former CIETC official John Bargman will testify. On Tuesday, May 9 at 9 a.m., the committee is scheduled to hear from former CIETC accountant Karen Tesdell. Former CIETC board members Dan Albritton and John Mauro also have been asked to attend Tuesday’s meeting.

###