Ohio Ethics Law

Public Contracts

Ohio’s Public Contract law prohibits public officials or employees from using their position to secure a public contract for themselves, a family member, or a business associate.

A “public contract” exists whenever goods or services are obtained by – or for the use of – a public entity.

This restriction applies to any involvement in the contract process, including recommending, approving, or otherwise influencing the decision.

Public officials or employees must recuse from the contract process if they, their family members, or their business associates are connected to the contract – note: this includes public jobs!

Public officials cannot profit from a public contract that they authorized or that was authorized by their board. Recusal alone may not “cure” the conflict.

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