New York State Ethics Law

The Ethics in Government Act was passed and signed into law to restore the public's trust and confidence in government through the prevention of corruption, favoritism, undue influence and abuses of official position. As part of the act, the ethics law was amended to establish standards of conduct for state officers and employees. It restricts certain business and professional activities, both while in state service and after separation.

The governing provisions are set forth in §73, §73-a and §74 of the Public Officers Law. To increase officers' and employees' knowledge of the state's ethics laws, a plain language version of the NYS Ethics Law has been prepared that incorporates changes made by the Public Employee Ethics Reform Act of 2007.

Sections of the New York state ethics law which may be applicable to Empire State University employees include:

Appearance of impropriety
Confidential information
Conflicts of interest
Financial disclosure
Gifts
Honoraria and travel reimbursement
Misuse of office
Moonlighting
Outside activities
Political activities
Post-employment lifetime ban
Post-employment two-year ban

For answers to questions regarding the New York State Public Officers Law and other ethics laws, contact the Office of the President.

For additional information see: New York State Ethics Resources