GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
BOARD OF ETHICS AND GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY
Office of Government Ethics
Darrin P. Sobin, Director
Ashley D. Cooks, Attorney
Volume 3
Issue 2
February 2016
Ethically Speaking
The BEGA/OGE Newsletter
BEGA Happenings ―
As the May 15th Financial Disclosure Statements filing deadline approaches, all agency heads must submit the list of public filers by March 1st.
Message from the Director ― Constituent Services by Elected Officials
Everybody at the Wilson Building knows how important it is to provide good constituent services to District residents. Whether it is informing citizens about government services, assisting with the delivery of services or even advocating on behalf of individuals, constituent services are integral to our role as public servants.
From an ethics perspective just about any type of action that is considered “usual and customary” is permitted. Sometimes, questions arise concerning whether a Councilmember can take a position in a contested proceeding, such as a zoning case. Generally speaking, if the tribunal’s rules permit input from non-parties and the Councilmember is not asking the ruling body to exceed its lawful discretion, then advocating a particular outcome is permitted. One caveat however for those Councilmembers who are also attorneys – the D.C. Bar’s ethics rules may have additional restrictions so please consult accordingly. As always, BEGA is happy to review any draft correspondence in advance or answer any advice query on this subject and any other.
Regards,
- Darrin P. Sobin, Director of Government Ethics
Enforcement Matters ―
An employee of the Office of the Attorney General entered into a Negotiated Disposition, agreeing to pay a fine of $1200 and attend ethics training. View Details
Upcoming Events ―
February 24 and 25, 2016, 9:00-11:00 a.m. - Ethics Training, Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs - 1100 4th St. SW.
Ethics In the News ―
Federal Office of Government Ethics Assists Kenya in the Development of an Ethics Training Curriculum Read More
Alexandria Mayor Seeks to Expand Ethics Rules for Virginia Officials Read More
Maryland Officials are Notified When Persons View Their Financial Disclosure Statements Read More
Smithsonian Exhibit of Bill Cosby’s Art Leads to Ethical Questions Read More
FBI Arrests Nearly All of the Top Officials of Crystal City, Texas Read More
Good to Know – Post Employment
Pursuant to 6B DCMR § 1806.4, “[a]ny hiring decision secured or effectuated [through nepotism] shall be rescinded immediately.”
If you have any questions, we can be reached at 202-481-3411, or through our website at www.bega-dc.gov