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Ethics Commission adopts electronic filing regulations for Form 700 filers
Summary
The commission approved core electronic filing regulations that require most filers who file SEIs with the Ethics Commission to submit Forms 700 electronically starting Jan. 1, 2014, while allowing a narrow, compelling‑reasons waiver for paper filings.
The San Francisco Ethics Commission adopted regulations to require electronic filing of Statements of Economic Interest (Form 700) for persons who file with the Ethics Commission, effective Jan. 1, 2014. Staff said using NetFile will allow faster public posting (within 24 hours) and better searchable, machine‑readable data.
The commission eliminated redundant draft regulations and approved the core regulations (drafts 3.1‑1100 and 3.1‑1103). Commissioners approved a requirement that filers provide a working email address that the system uses to authenticate submissions and generate a one‑time password. Staff noted this authentication approach is part of the approved systems available through the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC).
Recognizing accessibility and privacy concerns, the commission approved a narrow exception for filers who cannot file electronically; such filers must submit a written waiver request with compelling reasons at least 15 days before a filing deadline. Paper filings will be scanned and posted as images (not as searchable data records) unless later converted.
David Pilpel, who worked with staff on the proposal, supported electronic filing while flagging operational and privacy issues staff should address in implementation. Commissioners asked staff to notify appointing authorities and board secretaries and to update the Good Government Guide and training materials to ensure filers and appointing bodies meet the new notification and email requirements.
The commission approved the regulations by voice votes for the relevant decision points and directed staff to proceed with the FPPC proposal and implementation steps.
