POST to require annual conflict-of-interest disclosure; commission previews new form

POST legal staff told commissioners on Aug. 29 that the agency will issue a revised conflict-of-interest disclosure form that commissioners must sign annually.

Under the updated policy, forms will be issued July 15 each year with a July 31 deadline for return. Commissioners must file a new disclosure if their circumstances change — for example, if they accept a new job or appointment that presents a potential conflict. Staff said disclosures that identify a conflict will be referred to a conflicts officer for guidance on recusal or other remedies.

Why it matters: annual disclosures and a proactive requirement to report changes are intended to improve transparency and ensure commissioners recuse themselves or take other actions when appropriate to avoid conflicts and preserve the commission’s integrity.

Ending: Staff said finalized policy documents and the new form would be available in the coming days and offered to discuss questions individually with commissioners.