Opinions

To better guide public servants about ethics requirements, the Ethics Board has the authority to issue advisory opinions on the Ethics Law's application to circumstances described in a written request.  See City Code, Article 8, Subtitle 4. The Ethics Board is required to publish these opinions after removing all identifying information of the parties.  

Right to Rely on an Advisory Opinion

Any person subject to the Ethics Law is entitled to rely on an advisory opinion of the Ethics Board that: 1) is reasonably applicable to that person’s circumstances; and 2) has not been overruled by a later opinion of the Ethics Board or superceded by later amendments to the Ethics Law or its Regulations. See City Code, Article 8, section 4-4.

Advisory Opinions 

Restrictions on Secondary Employment/Board Membership 

*New* Ethics Opinion 21-004 (June 28, 2021)  - Board Membership Conflict of Interest

*New* Ethics Opinion 21-005 (August 12, 2021) - Service on City's Behalf

Restrictions on Employment After City Service

*New* Ethics Opinion 21-001 (February 11, 2021) 

Gifts

*New* Ethics Opinion 20-001 (December 16, 2020)

Ethics Opinon 17-001 (June 7, 2017)

Ethics Opinion 16-001 (February 12, 2016)

Ethics Opinion 13-001 (August 13, 2013)

Ethics Opinion 12-001 (December 11, 2012)

Ethics Opinion 11-001 (May 10, 2011)

Conflicts of Interest -- Recusal

*New* Ethics Opinion 21-003 (April 1, 2021)

*New* Ethics Opinion 21-002 (March 11, 2021)

Ethics Opinion 13-001 (August 13, 2013)

Ethics Opinion 11-003 (November 14, 2011)

Ethics Opinion 11-002 (August 11, 2011)

Prestige of Office

Ethics Opinion 14-001 (April 8, 2014)