PAOAG PA State Ethics Commission Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public Service Ethics

This video library is made available by joint initiative of the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and the Pennsylvania State Ethics Commission. Our collaborative mission is to promote integrity and ethical conduct by educating public servants at all levels of government in Pennsylvania.

An Inside Look:

July 09, 2020

Social Media

Using Social Media is not only a measure of our personal expression. By putting something out into the world, whether we realize it or not, we always make some sort of splash. Consider that someone may well know who you are and where you work, and that your online actions are seen as reflections not just of you, but of your employer as well.

View Presentation
May 20, 2020

History & Purpose

This summary includes a brief history of the State Ethics Act, with subsequent statutory amendments. It explains the organizational structure and primary functions of the State Ethics Commission, including information on the annual filing of Statements of Financial Interest, and public availability of official Advices and Opinions through its E-Library.

View Presentation
August 27, 2020

Key Provisions of the Act

This presentation explains what public employees fall under the jurisdiction of the Act, and what constitutes a conflict of interest, improper influence, or an impermissible honorarium (payment for official appearances). It includes an explanation of the one-year “revolving door” prohibition on representing a person or entity before the agency at which a former public employee worked. The Presenter explains “do’s and don’ts” regarding the annual requirement to file the annual Statement of Financial Interest; explains confidentiality of investigations, and explains possible penalties for violation of the Act.

View Presentation