WASHINGTON, D.C. --  After months of investigation into the circumstances surrounding the appointment and seating of Senator Roland W. Burris, the Senate Select Committee on Ethics has closed its inquiry and cleared the Senator of any legal wrongdoing.

In a "public letter of qualified admonition," the Senate Ethics Committee outlined the specific areas of concern that it investigated, and conclusively found no "actionable violations of the law" occurred.

Earlier this year, Senator Burris was also investigated and subsequently cleared of any wrongdoing by the Sangamon County State's Attorney in Springfield, Illinois.

 "I am pleased that after numerous investigations, this matter has finally come to a close.  I thank the members of the Senate Ethics Committee for their fair and thorough review of this matter, and now look forward to continuing the important work ahead on behalf of the people of Illinois," said Senator Burris.

 In recent months, Senator Burris has emerged as a key member of the Democratic caucus as they seek to piece together the critical 60 votes needed to pass President Obama's health care legislation through the United States Senate.  He has become a strong voice for the inclusion of a strong public option, and his vote is seen as vital for final passage.

A copy of the "Public Letter of Qualified Admonition" will be available on the Senate Select Committee on Ethics' website: http://ethics.senate.gov/.

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