Joint Commission on Public Ethics Unveils New Website and Tip Line to Report Misconduct

The New York State Joint Commission on Public Ethics ("Commission") announced today a new dedicated tip line and State website for New Yorkers to report misconduct by State officials, lobbyists and others who are subject to the Commission’s jurisdiction.

The website, reportmisconduct.ny.gov, and tip line, 1-800-87-ETHICS, are meant for securely reporting alleged violations of the State’s ethics and lobbying laws including improper gifts, conflicts of interest, nepotism, abuse of official position and sexual harassment, among others.

“Promoting compliance with our ethics and lobbying laws remains the Joint Commission’s top priority, and that includes holding those who violate the laws accountable for their actions,” said Commission Executive Director Letizia Tagliafierro. “The Commission’s new tip line and website provide a secure means for State employees and officials, and all New Yorkers, to inform the Commission of potential misconduct in our government.”

The tip line will be staffed by the Commission’s investigations division during business hours. The website enables users to send tips about misconduct electronically and includes resources for filing formal complaints. Among other outreach initiatives, the Commission will distribute posters promoting the tip line and website to State facilities across New York.

The Commission has broad regulatory authority and oversight over the four statewide elected officials, candidates for those offices, executive branch employees, State legislators, candidates for the Legislature, legislative employees, certain political party chairs, as well as lobbyists and their clients. The Commission’s statutory mandates include providing information, education, and advice regarding current ethics and lobbying laws, and enforcing these laws through audits, investigations, and enforcement proceedings