Receiving special favors or money for official actions
Disqualification from decision-making based on economic interests
Restrictions on interests in agency contracts
Restrictions on property ownership in redevelopment areas
Restrictions affecting employment after public service
This publication is part of a series of resources designed to help California local officials meet both the law’s and the public’s expectations for public service.
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The article Another Tool in the Ethics Toolbox: The Agency Auditing Function examines the role audits play in preventing misuse of public resources.Read more »
A court of appeal has upheld a $22 million verdict in a contract dispute involving the City of Compton. The city had terminated a solid waste franchise (a form of contract); the franchisee sued for breach of contract. The city cross-complained, asking the court to invalidate the contract and require the franchisee to refund all amounts paid under the contract. The trial and appellate courts sided with the city and ordered the franchisee to pay $22 million.Read more »
State law restricts what some kinds of local officials and employees can do when they leave public service. The Institute has prepared a frequently-asked-questions piece on the law; the state's Fair Political Practices Commission also has a helpful guide.
This article does two things. First, it explains California's prohibition against officials having an interest in contracts entered into by their agency (found in Government Code section 1090). Second, it explains the role of agency counsel in advising on ethics issues, including the responsibility to promote compliance with ethics laws.
(Four-page tipsheet): Provides a handy reference on the kinds of issues that ought to trigger a conversation with agency counsel or the Fair Political Practices Commission.
This fictional account illustrates how local officials can inadvertently be lured into problematic situations and offers ideas on how to respond. Download video »
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