Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 189 - RULES OF STATE ETHICS COMMISSION
Georgia Compilation of Rules and Regulations
Department 189 — Rules of the State Ethics Commission
Overview and Purpose
Department 189 sets forth the rules and procedures governing the State Ethics Commission of Georgia.
The State Ethics Commission is responsible for enforcing ethical standards and conflict of interest laws applicable to public officials and employees in Georgia.
The rules aim to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability in state government.
Key Functions of the State Ethics Commission
Advisory Opinions
The Commission issues advisory opinions interpreting ethics laws.
These opinions guide public officials and employees on compliance with ethics standards.
Filing and Disclosure Requirements
Public officials must file financial disclosure reports and other required statements.
The rules specify who must file, when, and how disclosures should be made.
Complaint Process and Enforcement
Establishes procedures for filing complaints against public officials suspected of ethical violations.
Describes how complaints are investigated, adjudicated, and resolved.
The Commission may impose penalties or sanctions for violations.
Conflict of Interest Standards
Defines what constitutes a conflict of interest for public officials.
Provides rules on recusal and disclosure when conflicts arise.
Prohibited Activities
Lists activities prohibited for public officials such as:
Accepting gifts that may influence official duties.
Using public position for personal gain.
Improper use of confidential information.
Lobbying Regulations
Sets rules governing lobbyists and their interactions with public officials.
Requires registration, reporting, and restrictions on lobbying activities.
Ethics Training
Provides for mandatory ethics training for state officials and employees.
Training is intended to increase awareness of ethics laws and proper conduct.
Procedural Rules
Hearings and Appeals
Describes how hearings on complaints are conducted.
Explains the rights of respondents to appeal decisions.
Public Access to Records
Balances transparency with privacy concerns.
Specifies which records are publicly accessible and which are confidential.
Importance of Department 189
Helps ensure ethical governance and public trust.
Clarifies legal and ethical obligations for public officials.
Provides mechanisms for accountability and correction of unethical behavior.
Supports a culture of transparency and integrity in state government.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Enforcement and interpretation of state ethics laws |
| Key Areas | Advisory opinions, disclosure, complaint handling, lobbying |
| Enforcement Powers | Investigation, hearings, penalties, sanctions |
| Training | Mandatory ethics training for officials and employees |
| Transparency | Public access to records with confidentiality protections |
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