Roll Call reports that the recent matter involving Rep. Rangel implicated staff activities, as well.

The subcommittee report, adopted by the full Committee on Standards of Official Conduct, cited precedents for the decision, but legal experts and government reform advocates suggested the decision could effectively expand Members’ liability for the actions of their aides.

“The Investigative Subcommittee also intends the publication of this report will serve as an advisory for all Members, employees, and officials of the House that Members may be held responsible for the knowledge and official conduct of their staff,” the Feb. 26 report states.