Hawai‘i State Ethics Commission

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The Hawaiʻi State Ethics Commission Quick Guides published on this page were created and archived prior to the ADA Title II mandate for WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliance. As such, these Quick Guides will not be updated.

Below are quick guides to some common ethics issues.  These are just general overviews – if you would like advice on a specific issue, please contact our attorney of the day at [email protected] or 587-0460.

NEPOTISM: Does the nepotism law apply to me? What does the nepotism law prohibit? (Effective: July 11, 2023)

SOCIAL MEDIA: This brief overview is meant to give guidance on common social media posts that may give rise to ethics concerns.

GIFTS TO LEGISLATORS: What gifts can or cannot be given to legislators and staff?

LOBBYING: Do you need to register as a lobbyist or file expenditure reports?  Check our easy-to-follow flow chart for general information about lobbying.

HOLIDAY SEASON: Common ethics questions that arise during the holidays, such as: “What should I do if a contractor brings a gift basket to the office?” and “Can teachers accept small gifts, like cookies, from students?”

NEW EMPLOYEES AND BOARD/COMMISSION MEMBERS: A brief overview of the State Ethics Code for people new to their roles as public officials. Also good as a general overview and reminder for existing employees and board/commission members.

GIFTS: Short guidelines on what gifts are acceptable and which ones aren’t.

SECOND JOBS AND OTHER PRIVATE BUSINESS ACTIVITIES: It’s okay to have a second job, but be aware of these ethics issues that can arise.

STATE BASE YARDS AND REPAIR SHOPS: Quick reminders about use of state equipment and the prohibition on doing side jobs for the boss.

CAMPAIGN ACTIVITIES BY STATE OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES: Ethics issues on campaign issues, like sign-waving and endorsements.

POST-EMPLOYMENT LAWS: Thinking of leaving your state position? Here are the rules that will continue to apply to you after you leave.