SC House Ethics meeting on procedure of Haley case

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The House Ethics Committee is meeting behind closed doors to discuss how to proceed with its investigation into Gov. Nikki Haley, a week after voting to reopen a complaint.

The committee voted Thursday to go into executive session to get procedural advice from lawyers.

The complaint by Republican activist John Rainey alleges that Haley illegally lobbied for two previous employers while a House member representing Lexington County. Haley has repeatedly denied doing anything wrong. Her office has submitted three affidavits from officials for her past employers saying she didn’t lobby.

The committee voted unanimously last week to reopen the case and hold a public hearing to take testimony. Its members must decide who they want to call to testify.

The hearing must be held within 30 days of the vote.