A state senator took free legal help from a group she funded with taxpayer money, raising conflict concerns, according to The Ithaca Voice. Watchdog group Reinvent Albany says the arrangement creates an appearance problem.
Sen. Lea Webb received assistance in a home foreclosure case from a nonprofit that got $30,000 she helped secure. Critics say that connection makes the situation inappropriate for a public official.
Webb says she plans to reimburse the organization, though details remain unclear. Her office adds the case stems from personal financial struggles and could be resolved soon.
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