Hawaii Constitution Article XIV Code of Ethics
Here’s a summary of Article XIV – Code of Ethics from the Hawaii Constitution:
📜 Hawaii Constitution – Article XIV: Code of Ethics
This article establishes standards of ethical conduct for public officials and employees in Hawaii, aiming to ensure honesty, integrity, and accountability in government.
🔢 Key Provisions of Article XIV:
Section 1 – Declaration of Policy
Public officials and employees must avoid conflicts of interest between their private interests and their official duties.
They must perform their duties impartially and serve the public interest.
The state commits to enforcing ethical standards to promote trust in government.
Section 2 – State Ethics Commission
Establishes an independent State Ethics Commission.
The commission’s duties include:
Enforcing the Code of Ethics.
Investigating complaints.
Issuing advisory opinions.
Providing ethics training and education.
Commissioners are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate.
Section 3 – Standards of Conduct
Public officials and employees are prohibited from:
Using their office for private gain.
Accepting gifts or benefits that could influence their official actions.
Disclosing or using confidential information for personal benefit.
Engaging in financial transactions that conflict with their duties.
Section 4 – Financial Disclosure
Requires certain public officials to file periodic financial disclosure statements.
Aims to promote transparency and identify potential conflicts of interest.
Section 5 – Enforcement and Penalties
The Ethics Commission has the authority to:
Investigate violations.
Hold hearings.
Recommend penalties or sanctions.
Penalties can include fines, removal from office, or other disciplinary actions.
✅ Summary:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Ethics policy | Prevent conflicts of interest; promote integrity |
| Ethics Commission | Independent body to oversee ethics enforcement |
| Prohibited conduct | No private gain, gifts, or misuse of info |
| Financial disclosure | Transparency through required reporting |
| Enforcement | Investigation and penalties for violations |
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