UW employees are responsible for being familiar with and understanding the state Ethics Act. It is important that all employees understand the rules governing personal use of university resources, financial conflict of interest, and the protection of confidential information. This page provides resources to guide you in understanding the complexities of the State Ethics Act.
UW Ethics Guide
A resource to help all members of the University community understand their responsibilities, and identify and manage potential conflicts of interest and other ethical questions.
Washington State Ethics in Public Service Act
The Washington State Ethics in Public Service Act is a foundational legal document, and can be found at Chapter 42.52 RCW on the Washington State Legislative website. The Ethics Act has specific provisions prohibiting state employees from engaging in activities that conflict with their official duties and from participating in state transactions from which they or their family members might personally benefit from. All university employees and officials are bound by the Ethics Act. The Ethics Act is also supplemented by provisions in the Presidential Orders (See Executive Order No. 32, "Employee Responsibilities and Employee Conflict of Interest").
Washington State Executive Ethics Board
The Ethics Act is complex and has been the subject of extensive clarifying regulations and interpretations. Explanatory and training information including useful advisory opinions can be found at the Ethics Board website.
Ethics Advisories
Ethics Advisories are topical information about areas of possible exposure to complaints under the Washington State Ethics Act.