Maine’s dependence on part-time legislators sets up a tricky balancing act for lawmakers.

They must balance the necessity of earning a living with their obligations in the Legislature. Oftentimes, it’s their experiences in the private sector and the expertise they’ve developed through their careers that makes them attractive to voters.

Take state Rep. Tom Saviello of Wilton, who has been accused of abusing his authority in the Legislature and of a conflict of interest. Saviello is the environmental manager for International Paper in Jay and, until recently, held a seat on the Natural Resources Committee, which has jurisdiction over many issues important to his work. His dealings with the Department of Environmental Protection and role in setting pollution standards for the Androscoggin River are at the center of an ethics imbroglio that cost former DEP Commissioner Dawn Gallagher her job.

Saviello has asked the ethics panel to review his case and determine if there’s a conflict. In the meantime, he’s voluntarily given up his Natural Resources seat. While it’s legitimate to ask whether Saviello has acted in the best interest of the state or has been looking out for his employer, there’s no denying Saviello’s technical expertise on environmental issues, particularly those related to water quality. You can’t out-parts-per-billion him.

Democratic Speaker of the House John Richardson and Senate President Beth Edmonds said this week they will appoint an advisory group to examine ethics laws affecting legislators, the public and lobbyists.

The two leaders point to the illegal actions of Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff in making their announcement, but they also acknowledge the allegations surrounding Saviello, without naming him.

The advisory panel will examine transparency in government, public access to lawmakers, legislator training and conflict of interest laws, along with several other important topics. The two legislative leaders also said they were considering new requirements for nonprofit organizations that conduct political activities and local referendum campaigns.

In comparison to what’s happening in Washington, Maine politics smells lemon-fresh clean, but problems surely exist. Taking a look at the laws on the books and how politics have changed since the statutes were last considered is a worthy exercise.

It’s the duty of lawmakers to jealously guard the integrity of the institutions of government. The ethics advisory group has the potential to clarify the law and improve the ethics standards in Augusta.