Topeka ? A Kansas House committee has been given the job of rewriting the chamber’s ethics rules so members know exactly what behavior will get them in trouble.

The existing rules don’t define misconduct. That was a big issue earlier this year, when questions arose about Republican Speaker Mike O’Neal representing private clients in a lawsuit he filed against the state.

Legislative leaders — including O’Neal — agreed Thursday to have the House Rules Committee meet two days to review the chamber’s ethics rules.

It could make recommendations for House members to consider when lawmakers reconvene in January.

Democrats argued that O’Neal’s involvement in the lawsuit created conflicts of interest for him.

He said there was no wrongdoing, and a special House panel concluded he violated no rules.