House Bill No. 6931 seeks to amend the State Code of Ethics to address conflicts of interest for public officials and state employees, particularly concerning their nonstate employers. The bill introduces new definitions, clarifying that a substantial conflict arises when a public official or employee believes their nonstate employer, or their spouse's nonstate employer, may financially benefit or suffer due to the official's actions. For elected officials, a substantial conflict is recognized only if they have actual knowledge of the potential financial impact. The bill also mandates that elected officials with a substantial conflict must either recuse themselves from the matter or submit a written statement detailing the conflict to the Office of State Ethics, which will be recorded in the agency's journal or minutes.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing language to promote clarity and inclusivity by replacing gender-specific terms with neutral language and expanding the definition of potential conflicts to encompass financial interests related to nonstate employers and their spouses. It aims to enhance transparency and accountability among public officials while potentially generating minimal revenue from fines for false statements, as it broadens the criteria for what constitutes a false statement under the law. The changes outlined in the bill will take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 1-85, 1-86
GOS Joint Favorable: 1-85, 1-86
File No. 85: 1-85, 1-86