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Ethics Laws

The Code of Ethics for Public Officers and Employees

The Code of Ethics for Public Officers and Employees, adopted by the Legislature as Part III of Chapter 112, Florida Statutes, contains standards of ethical conduct and disclosures applicable to public officers, employees, candidates, lobbyists, and others in State and local government, with the exception of judges. (The ethical standards for judges of Florida's judicial branch are contained in the Code of Judicial Conduct, adopted by the Florida Supreme Court.)

The "Sunshine Amendment"

The "Sunshine Amendment," adopted by Florida voters through a constitutional initiative in 1976 as Article II, Section 8, Florida Constitution, contains standards of ethical conduct and disclosures applicable to public officers and employees; it also requires the Legislature to adopt the code of ethics described above.

Standards of Conduct for the Public Service Commission and the Public Service Commission Nominating Council

Sections 350.031 - 350.05 & 350.0605, Florida Statutes, contain standards of conduct that apply particularly to members and employees of the Public Service Commission and to members of the Public Service Commission Nominating Council.

Use of State Motor Vehicles and Aircraft

Part II of Chapter 287, Florida Statutes, contains standards relating to State motor vehicles and aircraft; when possible violations are reported by the Comptroller, the Ethics Commission has the authority to investigate suspected violations.

Restrictions on Agencies' Use of Public Funds to Retain Lobbyists

Section 11.062(2), Florida Statutes, prohibits certain State and Local agencies from using public funds to retain lobbyists before the legislative or executive branches of State government and gives the Ethics Commission the authority to investigate complaints alleging a violation of this standard.

Summaries of Gift and Honoraria Laws

Clicking here will take you to a summary of Florida's gift law for public officers, employees, candidates, and persons and entities providing gifts and honoraria to public officers, employees, and candidates. Clicking here will take you to a summary of Florida's law on honoraria.

Legislative Changes

2017 Legislative Changes

2015 Legislative Changes

2014 Legislative Changes

2013 Legislative Changes

2006 Legislative Changes

2005 Legislative Changes