Nepotism Inquiry Yields Little

A nepotism inquiry by House Speaker Bill O’Brien has turned up little evidence of improper hiring in state government.

The probe comes in the wake of last month’s scandal at the Department of Employment Security. Two high ranking officials are accused of hiring their daughters, and then having them laid off by subordinates so that they could collect unemployment benefits.

Speaker O’Brien requested that all agency heads disclose any family members working within their respective departments.

Only Assistant Safety Commissioner Earl Sweeney reported any family connections. His son serves as a State Trooper.

In a statement, O’Brien said he believes nepotism is an issue that needs far greater oversight and more legislative involvement.