Ethics Committee discloses probe of Texas GOP Rep. Williams

WASHINGTON (AP) - The House Ethics Committee has disclosed a probe of Texas GOP Congressman Roger Williams, an auto dealership owner who has faced questions over a measure he authored to benefit auto dealers.

Williams defended himself in a statement, saying he wrote the provision in Congress' transportation bill last fall because of his extensive knowledge and experience in the industry. The provision would allow dealers to rent out vehicles even if they're subject to recall. Williams said it's intended to address recalls aimed at trivial defects, but critics said it could apply more broadly.

The nonpartisan Campaign Legal Center had urged a House Ethics Committee investigation of Williams over the issue.

The panel's disclosure Monday, required under House rules, said it was extending its review of the matter.