Substitute Senate Bill No. 323 proposes significant revisions to the state Code of Ethics for Public Officials, primarily aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability among public officials and state employees. Key changes include reducing the quorum for the Citizen’s Ethics Advisory Board from six to five members, as indicated by the deletion of "Six" and the insertion of "Five" in section 1-80. The bill also mandates that all state-wide elected officials, members of the General Assembly, and other specified individuals file electronic statements of financial interests with the Office of State Ethics by May 1 each year, with provisions for those who leave their positions to file within sixty days of notification. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of conflicts of interest to include potential financial gains or losses related to non-state employers of public officials or their spouses, and it introduces new requirements for officials facing substantial conflicts.

The bill outlines specific procedures for addressing substantial conflicts of interest, requiring elected officials to either excuse themselves from the matter or prepare a written statement detailing the conflict and justifying their ability to participate fairly. This statement must be submitted to the Office of State Ethics and recorded in the agency's journal or minutes. For state employees, similar disclosure requirements are mandated. The bill clarifies that a substantial conflict of interest for elected officials only arises if they have actual knowledge of the potential financial impact, rather than just a belief or expectation. Overall, these amendments aim to align the state's ethical standards with modern practices and ensure that public officials act in the best interest of the public. The changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2026, with the quorum change effective immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 1-85, 1-86
GOS Joint Favorable Substitute: 1-85, 1-86
File No. 349: 1-85, 1-86