The Standards of Ethical
Conduct
The Standards of Ethical Conduct are the foundation of ethics in the Executive Branch of Government. These are (repeated verbatim from 5 C.F.R. 2635.101(b)):
- Public service is
a public trust, requiring employees to place loyalty to the Constitution,
the laws, and ethical principles above private gain.
- Employees shall
not hold financial interests that conflict with the conscientious performance
of duty.
- Employees shall
not engage in financial transactions using nonpublic Government information
or allow the improper use of such information to further any private interest.
- An employee shall
not, except as permitted by applicable law or regulation, solicit or accept
any gift or other item of monetary value from any person or entity seeking
official action from, doing business with, or conducting activities regulated
by the employee's agency, or whose interests may be substantially affected
by the performance or nonperformance of the employee's duties.
- Employees shall
put forth honest effort in the performance of their duties.
- Employees shall
not knowingly make unauthorized commitments or promises of any kind purporting
to bind the Government.
- Employees shall
not use public office for private gain.
- Employees shall
act impartially and not give preferential treatment to any private organization
or individual.
- Employees shall
protect and conserve Federal property and shall not use it for other than
authorized activities.
- Employees shall
not engage in outside employment or activities, including seeking or negotiating
for employment, that conflict with official Government duties and responsibilities.
- Employees shall
disclose waste, fraud, abuse, and corruption to appropriate authorities.
- Employees shall
satisfy in good faith their obligations as citizens, including all just
financial obligations, especially those -- such as Federal, State, or
local taxes -- that are imposed by law.
- Employees shall
adhere to all laws and regulations that provide equal opportunity for
all Americans regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin,
age, or handicap.
- Employees shall
endeavor to avoid any actions creating the appearance that they are violating
applicable law or the ethical standards in applicable regulations.