The Public Officers Law and Commission's ethics regulations create legal obligations for both agencies and their officers and employees. For this reason, each agency should designate an Ethics Officer to provide guidance to these individuals on compliance with the ethics laws.  This publication provides an overview of the role that Ethics Officers serve in that capacity.   

Revised August 2022

A comprehensive overview of the Public Officers Law and other related ethics laws, presented in a plain language format.  An excellent resource for seasoned state employees and new hires entering State service for the first time. 

Revised 11/10/2023

Quick reference guide to the restrictions and prohibitions that apply to State Officers and Employees that leave State service. General information on the 'Two Year Bar' and 'Lifetime Bar' are provided.  For more detailed information, refer to the comprehensive 'Post-Employment Restrictions' plain language guide.

Revised 8/15/2022

A resource for those newly employed into State service.  Provides an overview of the State's ethics laws including conflicts of interest, acceptance of gifts and outside employment.  Recommended for distribution for all new public sector hires. 

Effective through July 7, 2022

Plain language guide to the restrictions that State officers and employees face once they leave State service including the two-year bar, and lifetime bars. 

Revised 8/16/2022

This handbook contains in its entirety a comprehensive list of the State's ethics laws that apply to State officers and employees.  Includes sections 73, 73-a, 74, 75, 76, 77 and 78 of the Public Officers Law which are required to those employees who must complete the Public Officers Law Section 78 Public Officer Oath/Affirmation provided by the New York Department of State. 

For best results when printing, select double-sided and 'Fit' in the 'Page Sizing & Handling' menu item.  

Revised 8/31/2022

Are state employees allowed to accept gifts? Read the latest Ethics in a Glance on gifts to find out.