Procurement Code of Ethics

From HAR Chapter 3-131 Compliance

(a) Public employees shall act in good faith to discharge their duties to ensure the fair and equitable treatment of all persons who deal with government procurement; to foster public confidence in the integrity of the procurement process; and to ensure the appropriate application of purchasing ethics. Any person employed by a governmental body who, when engaging in procurement, shall be bound by this code of ethics, including but not limited to the following:

  1. Avoid the intent and appearance of unethical behavior or practices;
  2. Diligently follow the procurement laws, rules, and procedures;
  3. Refrain from any activity that would create a conflict between personal interests and the interests of the State;
  4. Identify and eliminate any conflicts of interest;
  5. Avoid soliciting or accepting money, loans, credits, discounts, favors, or services from present or potential suppliers which may influence or appear to influence purchasing decisions; and
  6. Ensure that all persons are afforded equal opportunity to compete in a fair and open environment.

(b) Governmental bodies shall conduct procurement in accordance with all applicable statutes and rules, including chapter 84, HRS.

(c) Any person, including any actual or prospective bidder, offeror, contractor, or business shall act in good faith to practice purchasing ethics, and when applicable, display business integrity as a responsible offeror, including but not limited to the following:

  1. Avoid the intent and appearance of unethical behavior or business practices;
  2. Refrain from any activity that would create a conflict between personal interests and the interests of the State;
  3. Identify and eliminate any conflicts of interest; and
  4. Ensure that all persons are afforded equal opportunity to compete in a fair and open environment. [Eff and comp AUG 24 2009] (Auth: HRS §103D-202) (Imp: HRS §§103D-101, 103D-106, 103D-310, 84-15, 84-16)

Reference

Hawaii Ethics Commission

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission is available to provide guidance to procurement and purchasing personnel and can be reached at (808)587-0460 or [email protected].

Please refer to The State Ethics Code – A Quick Guide on Gifts.

You can also read the Ethics Commission’s newsletter, The High Road, which has ethics reminders for procurement personnel: