This bill aims to enhance ethical standards within state government by imposing restrictions on employment for former state employees and legislators in relation to grant recipients. Specifically, it prohibits former legislators from accepting employment or contracts with entities they voted to grant funding to within specified timeframes—5 years for employment and 12 months for contracts. Additionally, former state employees are similarly restricted from working with grant recipients if they were involved in the evaluation or administration of those grants. The bill also introduces penalties for violations, categorizing them as serious crimes under existing law.

Furthermore, the bill amends the definition of "serious crime" to include a broader range of offenses, ensuring that individuals who have committed significant violations are subject to recall. It establishes clear definitions for terms such as "employ" and "employer" to clarify the scope of the restrictions. The legislation aims to prevent conflicts of interest and maintain the integrity of state operations by ensuring that individuals who have had a role in state grant processes cannot benefit from those decisions shortly after leaving public service.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 43A.38, 211C.01
1st Engrossment: 43A.38, 211C.01