“Child” means a biological child, adopted child, stepchild, ward, or foster child, regardless of age. Ord. 04-795

“Compensation” means any money or thing of value, regardless of form, received or to be received by a person for services rendered. Ord. 04-795 Person §2-22

“Elected official” means: the Mayor; the City Comptroller; the President of the City Council; and any member of the City Council. Ord. 04-795

“Employee” means any employee of the City who is not an official. “Employee” also includes an employee of any agency or board included within the scope of § 2-2 {“Agency”} or <cite data-path="|8|§2-3">§ 2-3 {“Board”} of this subtitle</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Agency §2-2 Board §2-3 Official §2-21

“Ethics Board” means the Baltimore City Board of Ethics, established under <cite data-doc="City of Baltimore, Md., Charter" data-path="VII|§106">Article VII, § 106 of the City Charter</cite> and Subtitle 3 {“Administration”) of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. Ord. 04-795

“Executive Director” means the Executive Director of the Ethics Board or the Executive Director’s designee. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

“Financial interest” means ownership of: more than 3% of a business entity; securities of any kind that represent or are convertible into ownership of more than 3% of a business entity; or any interest as the result of which the owner:received more than $1,000 in any 1 of the preceding 3 calendar years; or is entitled to receive more than $1,000 in the current or any subsequent calendar year. Ord. 04-795 Business entity §2-4 Interest §2-19

“Gift” means, except as specified in subsection (b) of this section, the transfer of any thing or any service of economic value, regardless of the form, without adequate, identifiable, and lawful consideration. “Gift” does not include the solicitation, acceptance, receipt, or disposition of a political contribution that is regulated under State Election Law Article, Title 13 {“Campaign Finance”} or under any other state law that regulates the conduct of elections or the receipt of political contributions. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 11-484 Ord. 17-068

“Interest” means, except as specified in subsection (b) of this section, any legal or equitable economic interest, whether or not subject to an encumbrance or a condition, that is owned or held wholly or partly, jointly or severally, or directly or indirectly. “Interest” does not include:an interest held in the capacity of a personal representative, agent, custodian, fiduciary, or trustee, unless the holder has an equitable interest in the subject matter; an interest in a time or demand deposit in a financial institution; an interest in an insurance policy, endowment policy, or annuity contract under which an insurer promises to pay a fixed amount of money, either in a lump sum or periodically for life or some other specified period; an interest in a mutual fund that is publicly traded on a national scale, unless the mutual fund is composed primarily of holdings of stocks and interests in a specific sector or area that is regulated by the public servant’s agency; an interest in a trust that is qualified under § 401 or § 501 of the Internal Revenue Code and forms part of a pension or a profit-sharing plan; an interest in a qualified tuition plan under § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code; or a mutual fund or exchange-traded fund that is publicly traded on a national scale unless the mutual fund or exchange-traded fund is composed primarily of holdings of stocks and interests in a specific sector or area that is regulated by the public servant’s agency. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 16-585 Ord. 19-239 Agency §2-2 Public servant §2-23

“Lobbyist” means any person required to register with the Ethics Board under Subtitle 8 {“Lobbying”} of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Person §2-22

“Official” means:an elected official; the head of any department; the head of any bureau or division within a department; and any other individual in a unit of City government who, whether acting alone or as a member of a board acting jointly with other board members:has authority comparable to that of the head of a department or the head of a bureau or division; has decision-making authority in making City policy; has decision-making authority in the exercise of quasi-judicial, regulatory, licensing, inspecting, or auditing functions; or acts as a principal advisor to one who has authority of the type listed. “Official” also includes the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Director, Executive Secretary, or Administrator of any agency or board included within the scope of § 2-2 {“Agency”} or <cite data-path="|8|§2-3">§ 2-3 {“Board”} of this subtitle</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 16-509 Agency §2-2 Board §2-3 Elected official §2-8

“Person” has the meaning stated in <cite data-path="|general|1|1|1-107|(a)">§ 1-107(a) {“Person: In general”}</cite> of the City Code’s <cite data-path="|general">General Provisions Article</cite>. Notwithstanding <cite data-path="|general|1|1|1-107|(b)">§ 1-107(b) {“Person: Exclusion”}</cite> of the <cite data-path="|general">General Provisions Article</cite>, in <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> “person” also includes, except as used in Subtitle 9 {“Enforcement”} for the imposition of criminal penalties, a governmental entity or an instrumentality or unit of a governmental entity. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 10-267 Ord. 19-332 Ord. 22-125

“Public servant” means any official or employee. Ord. 04-795 Employee §2-9 Official §2-21

“Quasi-governmental entity” means an entity that: is created by a state statute; performs a public function; and is supported in whole or in part by the state, but is managed privately.

In interpreting and applying <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the following rules of interpretation apply: those contained in Subtitles 2 and 3 of the City Code’s <cite data-path="|general">General Provisions Article</cite>; and any additional rules contained in this Part II. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 22-125

In their interpretation and application, the provisions of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> must be taken to be the minimum requirements for the promotion of the public health, safety, and general welfare. If another applicable law relating to conflicts of interest, financial disclosure, or lobbying is more stringent than <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, that provision also applies. If an agency adopts a rule or regulation relating to conflicts of interest that is more stringent than <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, that provision also applies. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 22-125 Agency §2-2

The Mayor and City Council intends that the provisions of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, except those imposing criminal sanctions, be liberally construed to accomplish their purposes. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 22-125

There is a Baltimore City Board of Ethics, as established under <cite data-doc="City of Baltimore, Md., Charter" data-path="VII|§106">Article VII, § 106 of the City Charter</cite> and this subtitle. Ord. 04-795

The Ethics Board comprises the following 5 members, appointed by the Mayor in accordance with <cite data-doc="City of Baltimore, Md., Charter" data-path="IV|§6">City Charter Article IV, § 6</cite>:1 member nominated by the President of the City Council; 1 member nominated by the City Comptroller; and 3 members named by the Mayor, at least 2 of whom must be members of the Maryland Bar. Each member of the Ethics Board must be:an individual of known personal integrity; someone who possesses a recognized knowledge and interest in government and civics; and a resident of the City of Baltimore. No person may be appointed to the Board or, once appointed, continue to serve on the Board if the person:is or becomes a lobbyist under the State Public Ethics Law, Subtitle 8 of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, or the ethics code of any political subdivision of this State; is or becomes an officer or employee of the State, the City, or any other political subdivision of the State, or of any of their respective agencies, instrumentalities, or other units (other than a State college, university, or other institution of higher education); or is or becomes a candidate for elected public office of the State, the City, or any other political subdivision of the State. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 10-272 Employee §2-9 Ethics Board §2-10 Lobbyist §2-20 Official §2-21 Person §2-22

In accordance with <cite data-doc="City of Baltimore, Md., Charter" data-path="VII|§108|(a)">City Charter Article VII, § 108(a)</cite>, the term of a member is 5 years. The terms of the members are staggered as required by the terms for the members first appointed under the 2010 amendments to this subtitle. At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies. The Mayor may remove an appointed member as provided in <cite data-doc="City of Baltimore, Md., Charter" data-path="IV|§6">City Charter Article IV, § 6</cite>, but only for the following causes:neglect of duty; misconduct in office; a disability that makes the member unable to discharge the powers and duties of the office; or a violation of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. Before seeking City Council approval for a removal, the Mayor must give the member:written notice of the charges; and an opportunity to reply to the charges. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 10-272 Section 2 of Ordinance 10-272, which changed the composition and terms of the Board, provides for the following initial terms (1) the member nominated by the Council President shall be appointed for a term ending December 31, 2015; (2) the member nominated by the Comptroller shall be appointed for a term ending December 31, 2014; and (3) of the remaining 3 members: (i) 1 shall be appointed for a term ending December 31, 2013; (ii) 1 shall be appointed for a term ending December 31, 2012; and (iii) 1 shall be appointed for a term ending December 31, 2011.

The Ethics Board must elect a Chair from among its members. The term of the Chair is 1 year. The Chair may be reelected. The Ethics Board may elect a Vice-Chair and other officers from among its members. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 10-272 Ord. 11-520 Ethics Board §2-10

3 Members of the Ethics Board are a quorum. An affirmative vote of at least 3 members is needed for any action by the Ethics Board. The Board’s records must show how each member voted on each question. All meetings of the Ethics Board must be conducted in accordance with the State Open Meetings Act, Title 3 of the State <cite data-path="|general">General Provisions Article</cite>. The members of the Ethics Board:serve without compensation; but are entitled to reimbursement for reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of their duties, as provided in the Ordinance of Estimates. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 16-503 Compensation §2-7 Ethics Board §2-10

Subject to Title 4 {“Administrative Procedure Act – Regulations”} of the <cite data-path="|general">City General Provisions Article</cite>, the Ethics Board may adopt rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. The Ethics Board may issue orders necessary or appropriate to carry out the provisions of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Text Conformed 02/16/21 Ethics Board §2-10 By authority of Ordinance 20-431, Section 5, the Director of Legislative Reference, in consultation with the Law Department, has conformed the text of subsection (a) to refer to and reflect the requirements of the recently-enacted Administrative Procedure Act that, effective January 15, 2021, governs the proposal, adoption, and publication of administrative rules and regulations.

The Inspector General serves as the Executive Director of the Ethics Board and is responsible for assisting the Board in performing its responsibilities. In consultation with the Board, the Executive Director may assign staff from the Office of the Inspector General to assist the Board and Executive Director. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 20-354 Ethics Board §2-10 Executive Director §2-11 This section was amended by Ordinance 20-354, effective October 10, 2020, designating the Inspector General to serve ex officio as the Executive Director of the Ethics Board.

At the request of the Ethics Board, the Baltimore Police Department, City Solicitor, City Comptroller, and all other City officials and agencies must provide reasonable investigative or other professional assistance to the Board. Ord. 04-795 Agency §2-2 Ethics Board §2-10 Official §2-21

The Ethics Board must prepare and distribute all forms required by <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

As required by the Ethics Board from time to time, the Executive Director must: review statements and reports filed in accordance with Subtitle 7 {”Financial Disclosure”} and Subtitle 8 {”Lobbying”} of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>; and notify individuals who submit documents under those subtitles of any omissions or deficiencies. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Executive Director §2-11

The Ethics Board must retain all documents filed with it and all other records of the Board for at least:4 years; or if longer, the period set by the Archives and Records Management Committee in consultation with the Ethics Board. The Ethics Board must make these documents and other records available for public inspection and copying during regular office hours. The Ethics Board may charge a reasonable fee for the examination and copying of documents or other records. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

The Ethics Board must publish and make publicly available information that explains the provisions of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the duties imposed by it, and the means for enforcing it. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

The Ethics Board must develop and offer a training course of not less than 2 hours on the requirements of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, every official must complete the training course within 6 months of his or her appointment or reappointment to office. The training requirements of this subsection do not apply to:an official who, within the 3 years preceding his or her appointment or reappointment, completed a training course provided under this section; or an individual who is an official only by virtue of being a board member, unless the board:is one of the entities listed in <cite data-path="|8|§7-8">§ 7-8 {“[Disclosures statements] – Agency officials and staff”} of this article</cite>; or performs one of the functions described in <cite data-path="|8|§7-9">§ 7-9 {“[Disclosure statements] – Procurement, legislative liaison, and enforcement personnel”} of this article</cite>. After consultation with the Board, an agency head may authorize or require one or more classes of agency employees to attend the training course. On request of the agency head, the Board must offer the training course to those employees as soon as practicable. The Board must annually notify agency heads of the availability of the training course under this subsection. The Department of Human Resources must provide the Ethics Board with:appropriate facilities for conducting the training course; timely notice of the appointment of all officials subject to the training requirements; and administrative and other assistance. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 04-822 Ord. 10-272 Ord. 16-585 Agency §2-2 Board §2-3 Employee §2-9 Ethics Board §2-10 Official §2-21

Each official must, within 6 months of his or her initial appointment to office, complete and file with the Ethics Board and with that official’s appointing authority, an affidavit that certifies, under penalties of perjury, that the official:has read and understands the provisions of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> governing conflicts of interest; is not then in violation of those provisions; and obligates himself or herself to comply with those provisions in all future activities. The affidavit must be in the form that the Ethics Board requires. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 17-068 Ethics Board §2-10 Official §2-21

The Ethics Board and Executive Director each may:administer oaths; and issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses to testify or to produce other evidence. A subpoena issued under this section may be judicially enforced. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Executive Director §2-11

Except as otherwise specified in <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Ethics Board may charge reasonable filing fees for statements, reports, and other documents filed under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. The Board may not charge a fee for a disclosure statement timely filed under Subtitle 7 {“Financial Disclosure”} of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. The fees charged may include late fees for any document that is filed after the applicable deadline. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 13-180 Ethics Board §2-10

An individual who is appointed to fill a vacancy in a position must be given written notice, in a form approved by the Ethics Board, of the requirements of:§ 3-20 {“Training courses”}; § 3-21 {“Conflicts affidavit”}; and § 7-12 {“Financial Disclosure: Appointee to vacancy”}. For Board members and uncompensated appointees of the Mayor, the notice required by subsection (a) of this section must be given by the Mayor or the Mayor’s designee. For all other appointees, the notice must be given by the appointee’s agency head or the agency head’s designee. The notice required by subsection (a) of this section must be given within 5 days after the appointment. To evidence receipt by the appointee and understanding of the appointee’s responsibilities, the notice required by subsection (a) must be signed by both the appointee and the official providing the appointee the notice. Within 5 days of signing, a copy of the signed notice required under this subsection must be:placed in the appointee’s agency personnel file; and provided to the Ethics Board. An individual who is nominated to fill a vacancy on a City board must also be given written notice, in a form approved by the Ethics Board, of the provisions of <cite data-path="|8|§6-14">§ 6-14 {“Exceptions – New board members”} of this article</cite>. The notice required by paragraph (1) of this subsection must be given by the Mayor or the Mayor’s designee at least 14 days before the appointment is to be confirmed. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 04-822 Ord. 16-585 Ord. 19-287 Ethics Board §2-10 Subsection (d) was added by Ordinance 19-287, effective February 25, 2020.

The Ethics Board may exempt from <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, or modify the applicability of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> to, a board or 1 or more members of a board if the Ethics Board determines that, because of the nature of the board, the application of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> to the board or member:would significantly reduce the availability of qualified individuals for public service; and is not needed to preserve the purposes of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. An exemption under this section may be granted only on the written request of the board involved. Ord. 04-795 Board §2-3 Ethics Board §2-10

The Ethics Board must submit to the Mayor and the City Council: an annual report on its activities; and as appropriate from time to time, based on its investigations and studies, special reports with recommendations for legislation. Ord. 10-272

At the written request of a person who is subject to <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Ethics Board must provide an advisory opinion, in a timely fashion, on the article’s application to that person under the circumstances described in the request. At the written request of any person not within the scope of subsection (a) of this section, the Ethics Board may provide that person with an advisory opinion on the article’s application to the circumstances described in the request. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Person §2-22

The Executive Director must assist any person who needs or asks for help in preparing a written request under §4-1(a) {“Request for opinion: Requester’s right”} of this subtitle. The Executive Director may assist any person who needs or asks for help in preparing a written request under §4-1(b) {“Request for opinion: Executive Director’s discretion”} of this subtitle. Ord. 04-795 Executive Director §2-11 Person §2-22

Each advisory opinion of the Ethics Board must be:in writing; and subject to the redactions required by subsection (b) of this section, filed and made available for public inspection. Neither the Ethics Board nor its staff may reveal the identity of the person that is the subject of an advisory opinion. Before an advisory opinion is made public, the Ethics Board must delete:the name of the person that is the subject of the opinion; and to the fullest extent possible, any other information that might identify that person. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Person §2-22

Any person subject to <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> is entitled to rely on an advisory opinion of the Ethics Board that: is reasonably applicable to that person’s circumstances; and has not been:overruled by a later opinion of the Ethics Board; or superseded by an amendment to the applicable provisions of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> or of the rules and regulations adopted under it. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Person §2-22

Any person may file a complaint with the Ethics Board alleging a violation of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. A complaint filed under this subsection must be:in writing; under oath; and signed by the complainant. On its own motion, the Ethics Board may issue a written complaint alleging a violation of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Person §2-22

Subject to the redactions required by subsection (b) of this section, the Executive Director must promptly send the respondent a copy of the complaint. For a complaint filed under <cite data-path="|8|§5-1|(a)">§ 5-1(a) {“Commencement of action: On complaint of other”} of this subtitle</cite>, the Executive Director must delete from the copy sent to the respondent:the complainant’s name; and to the fullest extent possible, any other information that might identify the complainant. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Executive Director §2-11

The Executive Director must promptly investigate the complaint. The Executive Director must report his or her findings to the Ethics Board within a reasonable time. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Executive Director §2-11

If the investigation discloses a prima facie violation, the Executive Director must:so notify the respondent; and provide the respondent with an opportunity to cure the violation. The Ethics Board may dismiss the complaint if:within 15 days after the Executive Director’s notice, the respondent cures the alleged violation; and the Board finds that a dismissal would not be contrary to the purposes of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. If the Ethics Board dismisses a complaint under this section, the Executive Director promptly must notify the complainant and respondent of the dismissal. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Executive Director §2-11

After receiving the report of the investigation, if the Ethics Board determines that the facts do not merit further proceedings, the Board must dismiss the complaint. If the Ethics Board dismisses a complaint under this section, the Executive Director promptly must notify the complainant and respondent of the dismissal. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Executive Director §2-11

If the complaint is not dismissed under § 5-4 {“Dismissal on cure of violation”} or <cite data-path="|8|§5-5">§ 5-5 {“Dismissal on preliminary review”} of this subtitle</cite>, the Ethics Board must provide the respondent with notice and an opportunity for a hearing before the Board. At the hearing, the respondent is entitled to be represented by counsel. In its rules and regulations, the Ethics Board must establish procedures to govern the conduct of hearings held under this subtitle. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 The procedures established by the Board to govern the conduct of hearings are set forth in Board Regulations R 05.21 through R 05.26.

After the Ethics Board considers all of the evidence presented, it must make written findings of fact and conclusion of law on each alleged violation. If the Ethics Board determines that the respondent has not violated <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Board must:dismiss the complaint; and promptly notify the complainant and respondent of the dismissal. If the Ethics Board determines that the respondent has violated any provision of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Board may take any 1 or more of the actions authorized in Subtitle 9 {“Enforcement”}, Part II {“Administrative Sanctions”}. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 11-520 Ethics Board §2-10

A respondent aggrieved by a final decision of the Ethics Board under this subtitle may seek judicial review of that decision by petition to the Circuit Court for Baltimore City in accordance with the Maryland Rules of Procedure. A party to the judicial review may appeal the court’s final judgment to the Court of Special Appeals in accordance with the Maryland Rules of Procedure. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 19-332 Ethics Board §2-10

Notwithstanding any other law and except as otherwise provided in this section, after a complaint is filed:the proceedings, meetings, and activities of the Ethics Board and its staff relating to the complaint are confidential; and neither the Ethics Board nor its staff may disclose any information relating to the complaint, including the identity of the complainant or the respondent. The Ethics Board may release any information, other than the complainant’s identity, if the respondent has agreed in writing to the release. The Ethics Board may disclose the complainant’s identity to the respondent only at the respondent’s request and for good cause shown. The restrictions imposed by this section terminate when:the matter is referred for criminal prosecution; or the Ethics Board determines that a violation has occurred. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated. “Disqualifying relative”, as applied to an individual, means that individual’s spouse, parent, child, or sibling. Ord. 04-795 Child §2-6

In this section, “business entity” does not include Baltimore City or any instrumentality, unit, or agency of Baltimore City. Except as otherwise provided in this Part II, a public servant may not participate in and must disqualify himself or herself from any matter if:the public servant has an interest in the matter of which the public servant might reasonably be expected to know; to the public servant’s knowledge, a disqualifying relative has an interest in the matter; or any of the following is a party to the matter:any business entity in which:the public servant has a financial interest of which the public servant might reasonably be expected to know; or to the public servant’s knowledge, a disqualifying relative has a financial interest; any business entity in which:the public servant is a partner, officer, director, trustee, employee, or agent; or to the public servant’s knowledge, a disqualifying relative is a partner, officer, director, trustee, employee, or agent; any business entity with which:the public servant has applied for a position, is negotiating employment, or has arranged prospective employment; or to the public servant’s knowledge, a disqualifying relative has applied for a position, is negotiating employment, or has arranged prospective employment; any business entity that is a party to a contract with:the public servant, if the contract could reasonably be expected to result in a conflict between the private interests of the public servant and the public servant’s official City duties; or to the public servant’s knowledge, a disqualifying relative, if the contract could reasonably be expected to result in a conflict between the private interests of the public servant or disqualifying relative and the public servant’s official City duties; any business entity in which a financial interest is held by another business entity in which the public servant has a financial interest, if the public servant might reasonably be expected to know of both financial interests; any business entity in which a financial interest is held by another business entity in which a disqualifying relative has a financial interest, if the public servant knows of both financial interests; any business entity that has a financial interest in another business entity in which the public servant also has a financial interest, if the public servant might reasonably be expected to know of both financial interests; any business entity that has a financial interest in another business entity in which a disqualifying relative also has a financial interest, if the public servant knows of both financial interests; or any business entity that, to the public servant’s knowledge, is a creditor or obligee of the public servant or a disqualifying relative and that, as a creditor or obligee, is in a position to affect directly and substantially the interest of the public servant or disqualifying relative. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 10-267 Ord. 13-102 Business entity §2-4, §6-6(a Disqualifying relative §6-1 Financial interest §2-16 Interest §2-19 Public servant §2-23 Section 8 of Ordinance 04-795 provides that the preceding § 6-6 “do[es] not prohibit the continued employment of a relative of a public servant if (1) the employment was entered into prior to the enactment of this Ordinance; and (2) immediately prior to the enactment of this Ordinance, the employment and the public servant’s participation in the employment conformed to all then-applicable laws, rules, and other standards of conduct.” Ord. 04-795 was enacted on July 8, 2004. Subsection (a) was added by Ordinance 13-102 (Bill 12-163). Bill 12-163 passed the City Council on February 4, 2013. Pursuant to <cite data-doc="City of Baltimore, Md., Charter" data-path="IV|§5|(c)">City Charter Art. IV, § 5(c)</cite>, that bill automatically became law on March 11, 2013, without the Mayor’s signature.

Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b) of this section, a former lobbyist who is or becomes subject to regulation under this subtitle as an official may not participate in a case, contract, or other specific matter as an official for 1 calendar year after the termination of the former lobbyist’s registration if the former lobbyist previously assisted or represented another party for compensation in that case, contract, or other specific matter. This section does not apply to a former lobbyist who is an official only as a member of a board. Ord. 19-239 Board §2-3 Compensation §2-7 Lobbyist §2-20 Official §2-21

The prohibitions in <cite data-path="|8|§6-6">§ 6-6 {“Prohibited participation”} of this subtitle</cite> do not apply to the extent that participation in a matter is expressly allowed:by a rule or regulation of the Ethics Board; by an advisory opinion of the Ethics Board; or by another provision of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. The prohibitions in <cite data-path="|8|§6-6">§ 6-6 {“Prohibited participation”} of this subtitle</cite> do not prohibit the exercise of a ministerial duty that does not affect the disposition of or any decision relating to the matter involved. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

Subject to subsection (b) of this section, a public servant who otherwise would be disqualified under <cite data-path="|8|§6-6">§ 6-6 {“Prohibited participation”} of this subtitle</cite> may nonetheless participate in a matter if:his or her disqualification would leave a board or other body with less than a quorum capable of acting; the public servant is required by law to act; or the public servant is the only individual authorized to act. A public servant who seeks to participate in a matter under the authority of this section must comply with the requirements of this subsection. If acting as a member of a board or other body, the public servant must, before participating, publicly disclose to that board or other body the nature and circumstances of the conflict. In all cases, the public servant must, as soon as possible after participating, file with the Ethics Board and the public servant’s appointing authority a written notice of the nature and circumstances of the conflict and the participation. Ord. 04-795 Board §2-3 Ethics Board §2-10 Public servant §2-23

The prohibitions in <cite data-path="|8|§6-6">§ 6-6 {“Prohibited participation”} of this subtitle</cite> do not apply to the service of a public servant as a trustee or director of a business entity doing business with or subject to regulation by the City as long as: the City has an economic or programmatic interest in the entity; and the public servant:serves on the entity as part of his or her official duties, at the direction of his or her agency; receives no fee, salary, or other remuneration for his or her service; and does not participate in any matter in which the public servant or any disqualifying relative has a financial interest. Ord. 04-795 Agency §2-2 Business entity §2-4 Business with City §2-5 Disqualifying relative §6-1 Financial interest §2-16 Public servant §2-23

Except as otherwise provided in this Part III, a public servant may not: be employed by or have a financial interest in any person that is subject to the authority of that public servant or of the City agency with which the public servant is affiliated; be employed by or have a financial interest in any person that is negotiating or has entered into:a contract with the City or an agency of the City, if:the contract is with, for the benefit of, or to be administered by the agency with which the public servant is affiliated; the public servant’s duties for the City include matters substantially relating to or affecting the subject matter of the contract and the contract binds or purports to bind the City to pay more than $1,000; or for any other contract, the public servant fails to timely disclose to the Ethics Board and the procuring agencies, as required by rule or regulation of the Ethics Board, his or her employment by or financial interest in the person who is negotiating or has entered into the contract; or a subcontract on a contract described in this item (2); or hold any other employment relationship that would impair the impartiality and independent judgment of the public servant. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 11-484 Ord. 15-374 Agency §2-2 Financial interest §2-16 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23 Section 2 of Ordinance 15-374 provides that the preceding § 6-11(2), as amended by Ord. 15-374, “does not prohibit continued employment or financial interest if (1) the employment or financial interest was entered into before the enactment of this Ordinance; and (2) the employment or financial interest did not violate then-§ 6-11, as in effect before the enactment of this Ordinance, and conformed to all other then-applicable laws, rules, and standards of conduct.” Ord. 15-374 was enacted and became immediately effective on June 11, 2015.

The prohibitions in <cite data-path="|8|§6-11">§ 6-11 {“Prohibited interests”} of this subtitle</cite> do not apply to an employment or financial interest that is allowed by a rule or regulation of the Ethics Board if: in the case of employment, the employment does not create a conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest; and in the case of a financial interest, the interest is disclosed in the manner required by the rule or regulation. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Financial interest §2-16 Board Regulation R 06.12.1 establishes exemptions under this § 6-12 for: (i) outside employment as an adjunct faculty member of an accredited college or university; and (ii) a board member appointed under a requirement that the member represent certain industries, classes, etc. Regulation R 06.12.2, in turn, provides for certain additional employment exemptions that, subject to certain criteria, may be approved by the Board on individual application.

The prohibitions in <cite data-path="|8|§6-11">§ 6-11 {“Prohibited interests”} of this subtitle</cite> do not apply to an individual who is appointed to a regulatory or licensing unit pursuant to a requirement that persons subject to the jurisdiction of the unit be represented in appointments to it. Ord. 04-795 Person §2-22

The prohibitions in <cite data-path="|8|§6-11">§ 6-11 {“Prohibited interests”} of this subtitle</cite> do not apply to a board member who holds the employment or financial interest at the time of his or her appointment, if that employment or financial interest is publicly disclosed to the appointing authority, the Ethics Board, and, if applicable, the City Council before confirmation. The disclosure must be made by an affidavit, under penalties of perjury, in the form that the Ethics Board requires. Ord. 04-795 Board §2-3 Ethics Board §2-10 Financial interest §2-16

The prohibitions in <cite data-path="|8|§6-11">§ 6-11 {“Prohibited interests”} of this subtitle</cite> do not apply to the service of a public servant as a trustee or director of a business entity in accord with and subject to the limitations specified in <cite data-path="|8|§6-9">§ 6-9 {“Service ... on City’s behalf”} of this subtitle</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Business entity §2-4 Public servant §2-23

Subject to subsection (b) of this section, the Ethics Board may exempt a public servant from the prohibitions of <cite data-path="|8|§6-11">§ 6-11 {“Prohibited interests”} of this subtitle</cite> or modify the applicability of those prohibitions to a public servant if the Board determines that failure to grant the exemption or modification would limit the City’s ability to:recruit and hire highly qualified or uniquely qualified professionals for public service; or assure the availability of competent services to the public. The Ethics Board may grant an exemption or modification under this section only:in extraordinary circumstances; at the request of the City agency involved; and with the Mayor’s approval of that request. The Ethics Board must apply this section as consistently as possible under similar facts and circumstances. Ord. 04-795 Agency §2-2 Ethics Board §2-10 Public servant §2-23

The prohibitions of <cite data-path="|8|§6-11">§ 6-11 {“Prohibited interests”} of this subtitle</cite> do not prevent: an elected official from appearing, without compensation, before any City agency or legislative body on behalf of constituents or in the performance of any public, official, or civic obligation or duty; a public servant from accepting or receiving any benefit or facility that is provided for or made available to citizens or residents under any housing or other general welfare legislation or in the exercise of the police power, but only if the public servant does not exercise any responsibility or authority with respect to authorizing that benefit or facility for himself or herself; or a public servant from entering into a contract with the City for the City’s acquisition of real property, if:the amount to be paid for the property does not exceed the property’s value, as established by at least 2 competent real estate appraisers selected by the City; and all records of the City relating to the transaction are open to public inspection at all times during regular business hours. Ord. 04-795 Agency §2-2 Compensation §2-7 Elected official §2-8 Public servant §2-23

A public servant may not assist or represent a party for contingent compensation in any matter before or involving any City agency. Ord. 04-795 Agency §2-2 Compensation §2-7 Public servant §2-23

After leaving office or terminating employment, a former public servant may not assist or represent a party, other than the City, in a case, contract, or other specific matter for compensation if:the matter involves City government; and the former public servant significantly participated in the same matter as a public servant. Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a former elected official may not assist or represent another party for compensation in any matter that is the subject of legislative action for 1 calendar year from the date the elected official leaves office. Paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply to a former elected official’s representation of a municipal corporation, county, or State governmental entity. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 11-484 Ord. 19-239 Compensation §2-7 Elected official §2-8 Public servant §2-23

Except as permitted under subsection (b) of this section, a public servant may not solicit or facilitate the solicitation of a gift, whether on the public servant’s own behalf or on behalf of another person. The prohibition in subsection (a) of this section does not apply to a solicitation if:it is for the benefit of an official governmental program or activity or a City-endorsed charitable function or activity; and it either:is expressly allowed by a rule or regulation of the Ethics Board; or otherwise has been approved in advance by the Ethics Board, on the written request of the public servant and his or her agency. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 10-267 Ord. 15-373 Agency §2-2 Ethics Board §2-10 Financial interest §2-16 Gift §2-17 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23 Board Regulations R 06.26.1 and R 06.26.2 sets out criteria for obtaining approval under § 6-26(b) for “official governmental” or “City-endorsed charitable” solicitations.

Except as otherwise provided in this Part IV, a public servant may not knowingly accept any gift, directly or indirectly, from any person that the public servant knows or has reason to know: does or seeks to do business of any kind, regardless of amount:with the public servant’s agency; or with another person in connection with or in furtherance of a contract that is being negotiated or has been entered into by the other person with the public servant’s agency; engages or seeks to engage in an activity that is regulated or controlled by the public servant’s agency; is or, within the preceding 12 months, has been a lobbyist with respect to matters within the jurisdiction of the public servant; has a financial interest that might be substantially and materially affected, in a manner distinguishable from the public generally, by the performance or nonperformance of the public servant’s official duties; is an association, or any entity acting on behalf of an association, that is engaged only in representing counties or municipal corporations; or is an owner, partner, officer, director, trustee, employee, or agent of any person described in items (1) through (4) of this section. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 10-267 Ord. 15-373 Ord. 16-503 Agency §2-2 Employee §2-9 Financial interest §2-16 Gift §2-17 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23

Subject to <cite data-path="|8|§6-29">§ 6-29 {“Exemption limitations”} of this subtitle</cite>, the prohibitions in <cite data-path="|8|§6-27">§ 6-27 {“Acceptance prohibited”} of this subtitle</cite> do not apply to the unsolicited receipt of: food or beverages received and consumed by the recipient in the presence of the donor or sponsoring entity; gifts or awards that have insignificant monetary value, as defined by rule or regulation of the Board; in return for a speaking engagement or participation on a panel at a meeting, reasonable expenses, actually incurred and verifiable, for food, travel, lodging, child or dependant care, and scheduled entertainment of the public servant, but only if:the expenses are associated with the meeting; and to the extent the expenses are anticipated to exceed $500, the public servant has notified the Ethics Board before attending the meeting; tickets or free admission given to an elected official to attend a specific charitable, cultural, or political event, if given by the person sponsoring or conducting the event as a courtesy or ceremony to the office; a specific gift or class of gifts that the Ethics Board exempts on a written finding that acceptance of the gift or class of gifts would not be detrimental to the impartial conduct of City business; or gifts from a spouse, parent, child, or sibling. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 11-484 Ord. 15-372 Child §2-6 Elected official §2-8 Ethics Board §2-10 Gift §2-17 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23 Board Regulation R 06.28.5 establishes exemptions under this § 6-28(5) (i) for certain pharmaceutical samples given to City health-care facilities, (ii) for certain free admissions to events sponsored or conducted by educational institutions, and (iii) for certain free admissions offered by or on behalf of an instrumentality or unit of State government. Board Regulation R 06.28A defines “insignificant value”, for purposes of this section, as: “(1) a gift or award with a value of not more than $20; or (2) a gift or award in a series of gifts and awards with a cumulative value of not more than $60, if given by or on behalf of the same person during the reporting period.”

The exemptions specified in <cite data-path="|8|§6-28">§ 6-28 {“Qualified exemptions”} of this subtitle</cite> do not apply to any gift if: the gift would tend to impair the recipient’s impartiality and independent judgment; or for a gift of significant value, as defined by rule or regulation of the Board:the gift would give the appearance of impairing the recipient’s impartiality and independent judgment; or the recipient believes or has reason to believe that the gift is designed to impair his or her impartiality and independent judgment. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 11-484 Gift §2-17 Board Regulation R 06.28B defines “significant value”, for purposes of § 6-29(2), as: “(1) any gift with a value of more than $20; or (2) a gift in a series of gifts with a cumulative value of more than $60, if given by or on behalf of the same person during the reporting period.”

By rule or regulation, the Ethics Board may establish further exemptions from or modifications of this Part IV, as the Board considers necessary. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

A public servant may not intentionally use the prestige of his or her office or position for his or her own private gain or that of another. The performance of usual and customary constituent services, without additional compensation, is not prohibited by this section. Ord. 04-795 Compensation §2-7 Public servant §2-23

Except in the discharge of an official duty, a public servant or former public servant may not disclose or use, for his or her own economic benefit or that of another, confidential information that the public servant or former public servant acquired by reason of his or her public position and that is not available to the public. Ord. 04-795 Public servant §2-23

This section applies to:any individual who, for a proposed City procurement, assists a City agency in the drafting, development, or issuance of specifications, an invitation for bids, a request for proposals, a request for qualifications, or any other document related to the procurement; and any person who employs that individual. A person described in subsection (a) of this section may not:submit a response for that procurement; or directly or indirectly, assist or represent another person in submitting a response for that procurement. For purposes of this section, the following transactions do not constitute assisting in the drafting of specifications, an invitation for bids, a request for proposals, or a request for qualifications:providing descriptive literature, such as catalogue sheets, brochures, technical data sheets, or standard specification “samples”, whether solicited by the City agency or unsolicited; submitting written comments on a specification prepared by an agency or on a solicitation for a bid or proposal, if comments have been solicited from 2 or more persons as part of a request for information or a prebid or preproposal process; or providing specifications for a sole-source or selected-source procurement authorized by law. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 16-503 Agency §2-2 Person §2-22

In this section, “relative” means:spouse; parent or stepparent; sibling or step sibling; child, stepchild, foster child, or ward; mother-in-law or father-in-law; son-in-law or daughter-in-law; grandparent; or grandchild. No elected official may use public funds to employ a relative of that elected official or of any other elected official. Ord. 04-795 Child §2-6 Elected official §2-8 Section 8 of Ordinance 04-795 provides that the preceding § 6-39 “do[es] not prohibit the continued employment of a relative of a public servant if (1) the employment was entered into prior to the enactment of this Ordinance; and (2) immediately prior to the enactment of this Ordinance, the employment and the public servant’s participation in the employment conformed to all then-applicable laws, rules, and other standards of conduct.” The Ordinance was enacted on July 8, 2004.

A public servant may not retaliate against an individual for participating in an investigation of or reporting a potential violation of this article.

In this subtitle, “business with the City” means any 1 or combination of sales, purchases, leases, or contracts:that are made:to, from, or with the City or an agency of the City; or to, from, or with another person in connection with or in furtherance of a contract that is being negotiated or has been entered into by the other person with the City or an agency of the City; and involve consideration of $5,000 or more on a cumulative basis. For purposes of this section, the total consideration committed to be paid as of the award or execution of a contract or lease, to the extent then ascertainable, is included, regardless of the period over which payments are to be made. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 10-267 Ord. 14-307 Agency §2-2 Person §2-22

Prior to filling a newly-created or vacant position:each agency head must identify whether the position will be required to file a statement under this subtitle; and if the agency head identifies the position as being required to file a statement under this subtitle, each agency head must:include a disclosure of the financial disclosure requirement in any advertisement or job listing seeking applicants for that position; and provide the Board with the appointee’s name and position number within 10 days of filling that position. On or before January 1 of each year, each agency head must provide to the Ethics Board, with a copy to the Director of Human Resources, the names and position numbers of all public servants in that agency who are required to file statements with the Ethics Board under:§ 7-7 { “Elected officials and staff”}; § 7-8 {“Agency officials and staff”}; or § 7-9 {“Procurement, legislative liaison, and enforcement personnel”}. On or before February 1 of each year, the Director of Human Resources must provide to the Ethics Board the names and position numbers of all public servants who:hold positions of the types described in <cite data-path="|8|§7-9">§ 7-9 {“Procurement, legislative liaison, and enforcement personnel”} of this subtitle</cite>; and are not identified on any of the agency lists submitted under subsection (a) of this section. On or before February 1 of each year, the Finance Department must post on its website a searchable list of all persons that did business with the City for the calendar year immediately preceding the current calendar year. On or before February 1 of each year, the Ethics Board must post on its website a searchable list of all lobbyists who have registered with the Board for the calendar year immediately preceding the current calendar year. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 04-822 Ord. 14-307 Ord. 15-375 Ord. 16-585 Ord. 19-287 Agency §2-2 Business entity §2-2 Business with City §2-5 Ethics Board §2-10 Lobbyist §2-20 Official §1-21 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23 Ordinance 19-287 amended subsection (b)’s former annual reporting deadline from “March 15” to “February 1”, effective February 25, 2020. Ordinance 19-287 amended paragraph (a)(2)’s former annual reporting deadline from “February 28” to “January 1”, effective February 25, 2020. Paragraph (a)(1) of this section was added by Ordinance 19-287, effective February 25, 2020.

Except as otherwise specified in this subtitle, each statement must be filed with the Ethics Board on or before April 30 of each year. Elected officials must file the statement required by this subtitle on or before January 31 of each year. Except as otherwise specified in this subtitle:each statement must cover the calendar year immediately preceding the filing; and disclose for that year all of the information required by Part III {“Contents of Statements”} of this subtitle. Each statement must be:filed on the form the Ethics Board provides; and signed under oath or affirmation, subject to the penalties of perjury. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 19-328 Elected official §2-8 Ethics Board §2-10

An official must disclose employment and interests that raise a potential conflict of interest in connection with a specific proposed action by the official. The disclosure must be made sufficiently in advance of the action to provide adequate disclosure to the public. Ord. 11-484 Interest §2-19 Official cf. §2-21 Board Regulation R 07.03 sets out how and to whom the disclosure required by this section must be made.

Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the Ethics Board shall allow a person to inspect a financial disclosure filed by a public servant under this subtitle. The Ethics Board may not provide public access to a portion of a statement that is filed on or after January 1, 2019, and that expressly identifies an individual’s home address. The Ethics Board may not provide public access to information related to consideration received from:the University of Maryland Medical System; a governmental entity of the state or a local government in the state; or a quasi-governmental entity of the state or a local government in the state. The Executive Director must:require each person who inspects a statement filed under this subtitle to identify him- or herself; and record:the inspecting person’s name, address, telephone number, and organization represented; and the name of the person whose statement was inspected. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 11-484 Ord. 16-585 Ord. 19-239 Ord. 19-332 Executive Director §2-11 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23

In this Part II, the following terms have the meanings indicated. “Non-clerical employee” means any public servant who:is compensated for his or her services; and is not employed solely in a secretarial, clerical, or custodial capacity. Ord. 04-795 Public servant §2-23

The following elected officials and their employees must file the financial disclosure statements required by this subtitle: Mayor. Deputy Mayors. Chief of Staff. All non-clerical employees of Mayor’s Office. President of City Council. Chief of Staff. Director of Legislative Affairs. Director of Fiscal Affairs. Director of Operations/Office Manager. All non-clerical employees of President’s Office. Councilmembers. Executive Secretary. Chief Clerk. Journal Clerk Parliamentarian. Director of Council Services. All non-clerical employees of Council Services. All non-clerical employees of Councilmembers. City Comptroller. Deputy City Comptroller. Executive Assistant to Comptroller. City Auditor. Real Estate Officer. Director of Communication Services. All non-clerical employees of Comptroller’s Office. Ord. 04-795 Elected official §2-8 Employee §2-9 Non-clerical employee §7-6

The following officials and employees must file the financial disclosure statements required by this subtitle: Members of Commission. Director. Members of Board. Director. All members of Board of Directors. All non-clerical employees. All members of the Board of Directors. All officers of the Corporation. All non-clerical employees of the Corporation. Members of Board. Board Administrator. Members of Board of Commissioners. Director. Members the Commission. All non-clerical employees. Director of Consumer Protection and Business Licensing. Members of the Business Licensing Board. All non-clerical employees of the Department. Convention Complex Director. Deputy Director. Baltimore Arena Manager. Convention Center Manager. Director, Client Services. Director, Sales and Marketing. Director, Building Services. Director, Human Resources. Director, Public Safety and Loss. Members of Board. Director. Executive Director of Enoch Pratt Free Library. All Directors and Assistant Directors. All Managers. All Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs. Members of Board. Executive Director. Deputy Director. All hearing examiners. Members of Board. Executive Director. Members of the Board. All non-clerical employees of or assigned to the Board. Director of Finance. Deputy Finance Director. All Bureau Heads and Division Chiefs of Department. Deputy Chief of the Bureau of Treasury Management. City Purchasing Agent. Risk Manager. All non-clerical employees of Department. Members of Board of Fire Commissioners. Chief of Fire Department. Assistant Chiefs. Fire Marshal. Shift Commanders. Battalion Chiefs. Fire Inspectors. Public Safety and Health Officers. Public Information Officers. Emergency Medical Services Manager. Emergency Medical Services Billing Supervisor. Fiscal Supervisor. Director of General Services. Deputy Director of General Services. All Bureau Heads, Division Chiefs, and Assistant Division Chiefs. All General Superintendents. All inspectors. Commissioner of Health. All Deputy Commissioners of Health. All Assistant Commissioners. All Directors, All Chiefs. All Inspectors. All members of the Animal Hearing Panel. Members of Commission. Executive Director. Members of Board of Commissioners. Executive Director. Deputy Executive Directors. Associate Deputy Directors. Division Directors. Section Chiefs. Housing managers. Housing Inspectors. All attorneys. Commissioner of Housing and Community Development. Deputy Commissioners. Assistant Commissioners. All Bureau Heads, Directors, and Division Chiefs of Department. Members of Human Services Commission. All non-clerical employees of the following programs or units of the Department:Administrative Direction and Control. Construction and Building Inspection. Finance and Development. Neighborhood Services. Property Acquisition and Relocation. Property Disposition. Members of Civil Service Commission. Director of Human Resources. Deputy Director of Human Resources. All Bureau Heads and Division Chiefs of Department. Chief of Information Technology. Information Systems Division Manager. Systems Programming Manager. Client Server Systems Administrator. All Division Chiefs. Inspector General. Assistant Inspectors General. All non-clerical employees of Office. Labor Commissioner. Deputy Labor Commissioner. City Solicitor. Deputy City Solicitor. All attorneys and investigators. Director. Deputy Director. All bill drafters. Director. Members of the LGBTQ Commission. All non-clerical employees. Members of the Council. All non-clerical employees of or assigned to the Council. Members of Board. Executive Secretary. All non-clerical employees of Board. Members of the Commission on Aging, Resources, and Empowerment. Director of the Office. All Bureau Heads, Division Chiefs, and Administrators of the Office. All non-clerical employees of the Office. Members of Board of Directors. Executive Director. All non-clerical employees of Authority. Members of Board. Director. Members of the Authority. All non-clerical employees of or assigned to the Authority. Members of Planning Commission. Director of Planning. Deputy Director of Planning. All non-clerical employees of Department. Members of the Board. Members of the Administrative Charging Committee. Director. All non-clerical employees assigned to the Board or the Committee. Commissioner. Deputy Commissioners. Commanding Officers. All officers with rank of Captain or above. All civilian employees serving as Section Directors or above. Members of Commission. Director. Director of Public Works. Deputy Director of Public Works. All Bureau Heads, Division Chiefs, and Assistant Division Chiefs. All General Superintendents. All inspectors. Director of Recreation and Parks. All Division Chiefs and Assistant Division Chiefs. All inspectors. Members of the Boards of Trustees of:the Employees’ Retirement System; the Fire and Police Employees’ Retirement System; and the Retirement Savings Plan. Executive Directors and Deputy Directors of these Systems and Savings Plan. Members of the staffs of these Systems and Savings Plan, as designated by their respective Executive Directors. Director. Members of the Re-Entry Action Council. All non-clerical employees. Members of the Board of Directors. Administrator. All non-clerical employees assigned to the Commission. Members of Commission. All non-clerical employees assigned to the Commission Director. Deputy Director. All Division Chiefs and Assistant Division Chiefs. All General Superintendents. All Inspectors. Members of Commission. Director. Program Compliance Officers. Office Administrator. All Customer Advocates. All non-clerical employees of or assigned to the Office. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 05-174 Ord. 07-489 Ord. 08-063 Ord. 10-272 Ord. 11-520 Ord. 11-573 Ord. 14-307 Ord. 15-375 Ord. 16-509 Ord. 17-063 Ord. 19-332 Ord. 20-336 Ord. 20-363 Ord. 21-028 Ord. 22-124 Ord. 22-146 Ord. 23-249 Ord. 23-264 Agency §2-2 Employee §2-9 Non-clerical employee §7-6 Official §2-21

The following public servants must file the financial disclosure statements required by this subtitle: All non-clerical employees whose functions include:the drafting, development, or issuance of specifications, invitations for bids, requests for proposals, requests for qualifications, or other related documents for the procurement of supplies, materials, or services; the review or evaluation of bids, proposals, qualifications, or contracts for the procurement of supplies, materials, or services; or the inspection, monitoring, or other enforcement of contract standards and specifications. All public servants whose functions include the influence of legislative action, as defined in <cite data-path="|8|§8-1">§ 8-1 of this article</cite>. All other public servants whose official duties include enforcement of (including inspections to assure compliance with) laws, rules, or regulations that affect the rights of the public or the procedures available to the public. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 15-375 Agency §2-2 Non-clerical employee §7-6 Public servant §2-23

Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, an individual who, other than by reason of death, vacates a position for which an annual statement is required must file a departure statement with the Ethics Board. The departure statement must be filed within 60 days after vacating the position. The departure statement must:be in the form and contain all of the information required for an annual statement; and cover a reporting period that includes:the calendar year immediately preceding the date of vacating the position, unless the individual already has filed an annual statement for that year; and the part of the current calendar year during which the individual served. A departure statement need not be filed if:an individual vacates a position to assume another position for which an annual statement is required under this subtitle; and the disclosure requirements of the new position are at least as extensive as those of the former position. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, an individual who is appointed to fill a vacancy in a position for which an annual statement is required must file an entry statement with the Ethics Board. The entry statement must be filed within 30 days after the appointment. The entry statement must:be in the form and contain all of the information required for an annual statement; and cover the calendar year immediately preceding the appointment. An entry statement need not be filed if:while in another position, the individual already filed an annual statement for the preceding calendar year; and the disclosure requirements of the former position were at least as extensive as those of the new position. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a candidate for an elected office for which an annual statement is required must file a statement annually:beginning with the year in which the candidate files a certificate of candidacy; and continuing through the year of the election. This section does not require the filing of a statement for any full year that is already covered by a statement the individual has otherwise filed under this subtitle. The statement required by this section must be filed with the Baltimore City Board of Elections. The initial statement required by this section must be filed no later than with the filing of the certificate of candidacy. In each subsequent year, through and including the year of the election, the statement must be filed on or before the earlier of:April 30; or the last day for the withdrawal of a candidacy under <cite data-doc="Md. Code" data-path="gel|5-502">State Election Law Article, § 5-502</cite>. The disclosure requirements applicable to a candidate filing under this section are the same as those applicable to an incumbent holding the office involved. The Board of Elections may not accept a certificate of candidacy of a candidate covered by this section unless the candidate has filed the initial statement required by subsection (d)(1) of this section. If a later statement required by this section is overdue and is not filed within 20 days after the candidate receives from the Board of Elections written notice of the failure to file, the candidate is considered to have withdrawn his or her candidacy. Within 30 days after receiving a statement, the Board of Supervisors of Elections must forward the statement to the Ethics Board. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 22-124 Ethics Board §2-10

Individuals designated under this section, other than elected officials, may also be required to disclose information annually. By executive order, the Mayor may designate for disclosures under this section:any employee of an executive agency; and any uncompensated appointee of the Mayor. By written order, the President of the City Council may designate for disclosures under this section:any employee of the City Council; and any uncompensated appointee of the President. An individual filing a statement under this section must include the relevant information that the applicable designating authority specifies. A statement filed under this section is a public record. Ord. 04-795 Agency §2-2 Elected official §2-8 Employee §2-9

The statement required to be filed under this subtitle must include schedules that disclose the information and interests specified in this Part III, as directly applicable to the public servant or attributable to the public servant for the reporting period for which the statement is required. Ord. 04-795 Public servant §2-23 Board Regulation 07.16 authorizes board members who are not otherwise officials or employees required to file disclosure statements to file a modified, more limited statement provided by the Ethics Board.

For purposes of <cite data-path="|8|§7-21">§ 7-21 {“Real property”} of this subtitle</cite> and <cite data-path="|8|§7-22">§ 7-22 {“Business entities”} of this subtitle</cite>, the following interests are attributable to and must be reported by the public servant. An interest is attributable to the public servant if, at any time during the reporting period, it was:held by a spouse, parent, child, or sibling of the public servant; and directly or indirectly controlled by the public servant. An interest is attributable to the public servant if, at any time during the reporting period, it was held by:a business entity in which an equity interest of 10% or more was held by or otherwise attributable under this section to the public servant; a business entity in which a business entity described in subparagraph (i) of this paragraph held a 25% or greater interest; a business entity in which a business entity described in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph held a 50% or greater interest; and a business entity in which a public servant directly or indirectly, through an interest in 1 or a combination of other business entities, holds a 10% or greater interest. This subsection does not limit:the requirements of <cite data-doc="City of Balt., Md., Ord. 24-368" data-path="|8|§7-21">§ 7-21 {“Real property”} of this subtitle</cite> to disclose real property interests held by entities in which the public servant holds an interest; or the requirements of <cite data-doc="City of Balt., Md., Ord. 24-368" data-path="|8|§7-22">§ 7-22 {“Business entities”} of this subtitle</cite> to disclose certain entities in which the public servant holds an interest. An interest is attributable to the public servant if, at any time during the reporting period, it was held by a trust or estate in which the public servant:held a reversionary interest; was a beneficiary; or if a revocable trust, was a settlor. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 19-287 Business entity §2-4 Child §2-6 Interest §2-19 Public servant §2-23 Ordinance 19-287 amended paragraph (c)(1), effective February 25, 2020, to expand the reference to an equity interest “held” by the public servant to encompass an equity interest “held by or otherwise attributable under this section to” the public servant.

For purposes of any of the disclosures required by this subtitle, interests held by a blind trust are not considered interests of the public servant making the statement if: the blind trust is approved by the Ethics Board in accordance with rules and regulations adopted under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>; and the blind trust is operated in compliance with those rules and regulations. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Interest §2-19 Public servant §2-23

An individual who is required to disclose the name of a business entity under this section shall disclose any other names that the business entity is using for trading or doing business.

The statement must include a schedule of each interest in real property that, at any time during the reporting period, was held by or, under <cite data-path="|8|§7-17">§ 7-17 {“Attributable interests”} of this subtitle</cite>, was attributable to the public servant, including each interest held in the name of a partnership, limited liability partnership, limited liability company, or other unincorporated entity in which an interest was held by or attributable to the public servant. For each interest subject to this section, the schedule must include:the nature of the property; the property’s location by street address, mailing address, or legal description; the nature and extent of the interest held, including any conditions to and encumbrances on the interest; the identity of each other person with an interest in the property; the date and manner in which the interest was acquired; the identity of the person from which the interest was acquired; if the interest was acquired by purchase, the nature and amount of the consideration given for the interest; if the interest was acquired in any other manner, the fair market value of the interest when acquired; if any interest was transferred, in whole or in part, at any time during the reporting period:a description of the interest transferred; the nature and amount of the consideration received for the interest; and the identity of the person to which the interest was transferred. Ord. 04-795 Interest §2-19 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23

The statement must include a schedule of each interest in any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, or any other business entity, whether or not that entity does business with or is regulated by the City, if, at any time during the reporting period, the interest was held by or, under <cite data-path="|8|§7-17">§ 7-17 {“Attributable interests”} of this subtitle</cite>, was attributable to the public servant. For each interest subject to this section, the schedule must include:the name and address of the principal office of the business entity; subject to subsection (c) of this section, the nature and amount of the interest held, including any conditions to and encumbrances on the interest; except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, if any interest was acquired during the reporting period:the date and manner in which the interest was acquired; the identity of the person from which the interest was acquired; if the interest was acquired by purchase, the nature and amount of the consideration given for the interest; and if the interest was acquired in any other manner, the fair market value of the interest when it was acquired; and if any interest was transferred, in whole or in part, during the reporting period:a description of the interest transferred; the nature and amount of the consideration received for the interest; and if known, the identity of the person to which the interest was transferred. For an equity interest in a corporation, the reporting requirements of subsection (b)(2) of this section may be satisfied by reporting, instead of a dollar amount:the number of shares held; and unless the corporation’s stock is publicly traded, the percentage of equity interest held. For an equity interest in a partnership, limited liability company, or any other business entity, the reporting requirements of subsection (b)(2) of this section may be satisfied by reporting, instead of a dollar amount, the percentage of equity interest held. For purposes of the reporting requirements of subsection (b)(3) of this section, only the manner of acquisition need be disclosed if:the interest was acquired by dividend or dividend reinvestment and consists solely of additions to existing, publicly traded corporate interests; and the total value of the acquisition is less than $500. Ord. 04-795 Business entity §2-4 Business with City §2-5 Interest §2-19 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23

In this section, “significant gift” means, except as specified in paragraph (2) of this subsection:any gift with a value of more than $20; and any gift in a series of gifts with a cumulative value of $100 or more given by or on behalf of the same person during the reporting period. “Significant gift” does not include any of the following, regardless of value:a gift from a spouse, parent, child, or sibling; a campaign contribution that is otherwise reported as required by law; or tickets or free admission given to an elected official to attend a specific charitable, cultural, or political event, if given by the person sponsoring or conducting the event as a courtesy or ceremony to the office. The statement must include a schedule of each significant gift that was, at any time during the reporting period:accepted by the public servant or by any other person at the direction of the public servant; and given by or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, any person that the public servant knows or has reason to know was:a lobbyist; a person regulated by the City; a person doing business with the City; or an association or an entity acting on behalf of an association that is engaged only in representing counties or municipal corporations. For each gift subject to this section, the schedule must include:the nature and value of the gift; and the identity of the person from whom, or on behalf of whom, directly or indirectly, the gift was received. Neither this section nor any disclosure made under it authorizes any gift that is not otherwise allowed by law. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 10-267 Ord. 11-484 Business with City §2-5 Child §2-6 Elected official §2-8 Gift §2-17 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23

The statement must include a schedule of each office, directorship, salaried employment, and other similar interest not otherwise disclosed that was, at any time during the reporting period:held by the public servant, by the public servant’s spouse or child, or, if known to the public servant, by the public servant’s parent or sibling, in any business entity that was:a lobbyist, regulated by the City, or doing business with the City. In addition to the requirements set forth in subsection (a) of this section, the statement must include each directorship held by the public servant in any business entity. For each position or interest subject to this section, the schedule must include:the name and address of the principal office of the business entity; the title and nature of the position or interest; the date when the position or interest began; if applicable, the name of each agency with which the entity is doing business, by which it is regulated, or in connection with which it is a lobbyist; if applicable, the nature of the entity’s relationship to the City, which at a minimum must refer to the applicable criteria listed in subsection (a)(2) of this section; and if the position or interest is held by someone other than the public servant, the identity of the individual who held the position or interest. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 19-287 Agency §2-2 Business entity §2-4 Business with City §2-5 Child §2-6 Interest §2-19 Lobbyist §2-20 Public servant §2-23 Subsection (b) was added by Ordinance 19-287, effective February 25, 2020.

Except as specified in subsection (c) of this section, the statement must include a schedule of each debt that was, at any time during the reporting period, owed:by the public servant or, if the public servant was involved in the transaction giving rise to the debt, by the public servant’s spouse, parent, child, or sibling, to any business entity that was:a lobbyist; regulated by the public servant’s agency; or doing business with the public servant’s agency. For each debt subject to this section, the schedule must include:the identity of the person to whom the debt was owed; the date the debt was incurred; the amount owed at the end of the reporting period; the terms of payment; the extent to which the principal was increased or decreased during the reporting period; and any security given. This section does not apply to:a retail credit account; a retail installment sales account; or a utility account. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 19-239 Agency §2-2 Business entity §2-4 Business with City §2-5 Child §2-6 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23

The statement must include a schedule of any spouse, parent, child, or sibling who was, at any time during the reporting period, employed by the City in any capacity. For each family member subject to this section, the schedule must include:the individual’s name and relationship to the public servant; and the agency and position in which the individual was employed. Ord. 04-795 Agency §2-2 Child §2-6 Public servant §2-23

The statement must include a schedule that lists, for the public servant and for each of the public servant’s spouse and children:each place of compensated employment at any time during the reporting period; and each business entity:of which the public servant, spouse, or child was a sole or partial owner; and from which, at any time during the reporting period, he or she received earned income. For each source of income subject to this section, the schedule must include:the name and address of the place of salaried employment or business entity; for each family member, that individual’s name and relationship to the public servant; and if the individual’s spouse is a lobbyist, any entity that has engaged the spouse for lobbying purposes. The statement may not include a listing of a minor child’s employment or a listing of 1 or more business entities of which the child is a sole or partial owner, unless the place of employment or business entity:is subject to the regulation or authority of the agency that employs the individual; or has contracts in excess of $10,000 with the agency that employs the individual. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 19-239 19-328 Business entity §2-4 Child §2-6 Lobbyist §2-20 Public servant §2-23

In this section, “substantial interest” means holding an equity interest of 30% or more in a business entity. This section only applies to payments received from any person that the elected official knows or should know was:a lobbyist; a person regulated by the City; or a person doing business with the City. If the elected official or the elected official’s spouse has a substantial interest in a business entity, the statement must include the name and address of any person described in subsection (b) of this section who, during the reporting period, paid that entity:$1,000 or more in the aggregate; or an amount that in the aggregate constitutes 5% or more of the gross income of that entity, if the gross income of that entity is less than $20,000. If the elected official or the elected official’s spouse has a substantial interest in multiple business entities, the statement must include the name and address of any person described in subsection (b) of this section, who during the reporting period, paid those entities:$1,000 or more in the aggregate; or an amount that in the aggregate constitutes 5% or more of the gross income of those entities, if the gross income of those business entities is less than $20,000. Nothing in this section is meant to require the disclosure of any information that is otherwise confidential by law. Ord. 19-328 Business entity §2-4 Business with City §7-1 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22 Substantial interest §7-28

The statement shall include a schedule of any financial or contractual relationship with:the University of Maryland Medical System; a governmental entity of the state or a local government in the state; or a quasi-governmental entity of the state or a local government in the state; or For each financial or contractual relationship reported, the schedule shall include:a description of the relationship; the subject matter of the relationship; and the consideration. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 19-328 Interest §2-19 Public servant §2-23

The statement may include a schedule of additional interests or information that the public servant chooses to disclose.

In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated. If lobbying is only part of a person’s employment, “compensation” means a prorated amount of the person’s total compensation, as defined in <cite data-path="|8|§2-7">§ 2-7 of this article</cite>, that is based on the time devoted by the person to lobbying compared to the time devoted to other employment duties. “Executive action” means any official action or nonaction that:is taken by a public servant; and is not legislative action, as defined in this section. “Legislative action” means any official action or nonaction relating to:any bill, resolution, nomination, appointment, report, or other matter within the jurisdiction of the City Council; or any bill or resolution presented to the Mayor for approval or veto. “Legislative action” includes:introduction; sponsorship; consideration and debate; amendment; passage or defeat; and approval or veto. “Lobby” means to do any act that requires registration under this subtitle. “Reporting period” means all or any part of the period from January 1 of any year through December 31 of the same year during which a person is registered or required to be registered with the Ethics Board as a lobbyist. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 18-198 Compensation § 2-7 Person § 2-22 Legislative action § 8-1(d Lobby § 8-1(e Lobbyist § 2-20 Public servant § 2-23

Except as otherwise specified in Part V {“Exemptions”} of this subtitle, a person who engages in any activity described in this Part II must register with the Ethics Board. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Person §2-22

A person must register if, during a reporting period, the person: for the purpose of influencing any legislative action, communicates with a public servant; and in furtherance of or in connection with all such communications for that or any other legislative action, and all activities relating to those communications:expends $100 or more for gifts, including meals, beverages, or special events, to 1 or more public servants; incurs any expenses of $500 or more; or earns $2,500 or more in compensation. Ord. 04-795 Compensation §8-1 Gift §2-17 Legislative action §8-1 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23 Reporting period §8-1

A person must register if, during a reporting period, the person:for the purpose of influencing any executive action, communicates with a public servant; and in furtherance of or in connection with all such communications for that or any other executive action, and all activities relating to those communications, expends $100 or more for gifts, including meals, beverages, or special events, to 1 or more public servants. A person must register if, during a reporting period, the person:for the purpose of influencing the development, adoption, issuance, or amendment of regulations or of an executive order, communicates with a public servant; and in furtherance of or in connection with all such communications for that or any other executive action, and all activities relating to those communications:expends $100 or more for gifts, including meals, beverages, or special events, to 1 or more public servants; incurs any expenses of $500 or more; or earns $2,500 or more in compensation. A person must register if, during a reporting period, the person:for the purpose of influencing executive action on a procurement contract that exceeds $50,000, communicates with a public servant; and in furtherance of or in connection with all such communications for that or any other executive action, and all activities relating to those communications:expends $100 or more for gifts, including meals, beverages, or special events, to 1 or more public servants; or except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, is compensated for his or her services. Paragraph (1)(ii)(B) of this subsection does not apply to a bona fide salesperson or commercial selling agency employed or maintained by an employer for the purpose of soliciting or securing a procurement contract, as long as the person engages in no other acts during the reporting period that require registration. A person must register if, during a reporting period, the person:for the purpose of influencing executive action to secure for a business entity a grant or loan that exceeds $50,000, communicates with a public servant; and in furtherance of or in connection with all such communications for that or any other executive action, and all activities relating to those communications:expends $100 or more for gifts, including meals, beverages, or special events, to 1 or more public servants; or except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, is compensated for his or her services. Paragraph (1)(ii)(B) of this subsection does not apply to either of the following, as long as the person engages in no other acts during the reporting period that require registration:a bona fide full-time official or employee of a business entity that is seeking to secure a grant or loan; or a person who is seeking a grant or loan for the purpose of locating, relocating, or expanding a business in or into the City. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 06-188 Compensation §8-1 Executive action §8-1 Gift §2-17 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23 Reporting period §8-1

A person must register if, during a reporting period, the person: for the purpose of influencing any legislative or executive action, solicits others to communicate with a public servant; and in furtherance of or in connection with that solicitation, expends $1,000 or more, including expenditures for salaries, contractual employees, postage, telecommunications services, electronic services, advertising, printing, or delivery services. Ord. 04-795 Executive action §8-1 Legislative action §8-1 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23 Reporting period §8-1

Any person that engages a lobbyist for the purpose of lobbying must provide a written authorization for the lobbyist to act on the person’s behalf. The authorization must include:the person’s full legal name and business address; the lobbyist’s full legal name and business address; the period during which the lobbyist is authorized to act; and the legislative action, executive action, or other matter on which the lobbyist is authorized to act. The authorization must be signed by:the person on whose behalf the lobbyist is being authorized to act; or if that person is a corporation, any authorized officer or agent of the corporation other than the lobbyist. Ord. 04-795 Executive action §8-1 Legislative action §8-1 Lobby §8-1 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22

A lobbyist must register within 5 days after first engaging in any act that requires registration. A lobbyist must file a new registration on or before January 1 of each year if, on that date, the lobbyist is engaged in lobbying. Ord. 04-795 Lobby §8-1 Lobbyist §2-20

A lobbyist who engages in lobbying on behalf of more than 1 person must file a separate registration for each person. The registration must be filed on the form the Ethics Board provides. The registration must include the following information, as applicable:the lobbyist’s full legal name and business address; the full legal name and business address of each other person that will be lobbying on the lobbyist’s behalf; the full legal name, address, and nature of business of the person on whose behalf the lobbyist is acting; a statement of whether, because of the lobbyist’s registration and reporting, the person on whose behalf the lobbyist is acting will be exempt from registration under <cite data-path="|8|§8-33">§ 8-33 {“Employer of reporting lobbyist”} of this subtitle</cite>; and the identification, by formal designation, if known, of the legislative action, executive action, or other matter on which the lobbyist is acting or expects to act or on which the lobbyist has engaged or expects to engage another person to act. The registration must be accompanied by the written authorization required by <cite data-path="|8|§8-11">§ 8-11 {“Employer authorization required”} of this subtitle</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Executive action §8-1 Legislative action §8-1 Lobby §8-1 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22

Each lobbying registration must be accompanied by a filing fee of $100. This fee shall be adjusted annually in accordance with the City Fee Policy and as approved by the Board of Estimates. Ord. 13-180

Unless sooner terminated under subsection (b) of this section, each registration terminates on the earlier of:the December 31 that first follows the registration’s filing; or the date specified in a written authorization filed under <cite data-path="|8|§8-11">§ 8-11 {“Employer authorization required”} of this subtitle</cite>. A lobbyist may terminate the registration as of an earlier date than that specified in subsection (a) of this section if the lobbyist:ceases all activity that requires registration; after ceasing all activity, files a notice of termination with the Ethics Board; and within 30 days after filing the notice, files all reports required by this subtitle. Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, if a lobbyist is or becomes subject to regulation under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> as a public servant, the lobbyist must:immediately cease all activity that requires registration; and terminate his or her registration in accordance with subsection (b) of this section within 30 days of becoming a public servant:file a notice of termination with the Ethics Board; and file all reports required by this subtitle. Paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply to a lobbyist appointed to an advisory body of limited duration. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 13-180 Ethics Board §2-10 Lobbyist §2-20 Public servant §2-23

A lobbyist must file with the Ethics Board semi-annual activity reports for the reporting period for which the lobbyist is registered or required to be registered. For each reporting period, these semi-annual reports must be filed as follows:on or before July 31, covering the immediately preceding January 1 through June 30; and on or before January 31, covering all of the immediately preceding January 1 through December 31. A separate report must be filed for each person on whose behalf the lobbyist acted. Each report must be:filed on the form the Ethics Board provides; and signed under oath or affirmation, subject to the penalties of perjury. If the lobbyist is not an individual, then an authorized officer or agent of the lobbyist must sign the report. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 18-198 Ethics Board §2-10 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22 Reporting period §8-1

Each report must include a complete, current statement of the information required by <cite data-path="|8|§8-13|(c)">§ 8-13(c) {“Registration: Contents”} of this subtitle</cite>. Ord. 04-795

Except as provided in subsection (c) of this subsection, each report must include the total compensation paid to the lobbyist in connection with lobbying activities during the period to which that report applies, as specified in <cite data-path="|8|§8-16|(b)|(1)">§ 8-16(b)(1) of this subtitle</cite>. If the compensation being reported is a prorated amount, it must be so labeled. This section does not apply to:expenses otherwise reported under other sections of this Part IV; or salaries, compensation, and reimbursed expenses for the lobbyist’s staff. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 18-198 Compensation §8-1 Lobby §8-1 Lobbyist §2-20

Except as reported under <cite data-path="|8|§8-18">§ 8-18 {“Contents — Compensation”} of this subtitle</cite>, each report must include the total amount expended in connection with the lobbying activities during the period to which that report applies, as specified in <cite data-path="|8|§8-16|(b)|(1)">§ 8-16(b)(1) of this subtitle</cite>, for:office expenses of the lobbyist; and professional and technical research and assistance. Each report must include the total amount expended in connection with the lobbying activities during the period to which that report applies, as specified in <cite data-path="|8|§8-16|(b)|(1)">§ 8-16(b)(1) of this subtitle</cite>, for publications that expressly encourage others to communicate with 1 or more public servants. Each report must include:the total amount expended in connection with lobbying activities for witnesses during the period to which that report applies, as specified in <cite data-path="|8|§8-16|(b)|(1)">§ 8-16(b)(1) of this subtitle</cite>; the name of each witness; and the fees and expenses paid to each. Each report must include the total amount expended for each of the following during the period to which that report applies, as specified in <cite data-path="|8|§8-16|(b)|(1)">§ 8-16(b)(1) of this subtitle</cite>, whether or not expended in connection with lobbying activities:meals and beverages for a public servant or the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of a public servant; special events, including parties, dinners, athletic events, entertainment, and other functions, to which a public servant or the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of a public servant is invited; food, lodging, or scheduled entertainment of a public servant or the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of a public servant while attending a meeting; tickets or free admission for a public servant or the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of a public servant to attend a professional or intercollegiate sporting event or a charitable, cultural, or political event; and other gifts to or for a public servant or the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of a public servant. The lobbyist must report the name of any public servant or the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of a public servant who benefitted from:expenses reported under paragraph (1)(i) of this subsection; or expenses reported under paragraph (1)(iii) of this subsection, if more than $200 was expended for the benefit of the public servant, spouse, parent, child, or sibling. Expenses reported under paragraph (1)(ii), (iii), and (iv) of this subsection must be itemized by:the date and location of each event or activity; and the total expense of the lobbyist for the event or activity. Each report must include the total amount expended for all other expenses incurred in connection with the lobbying activities during the period to which that report applies, as specified in § 8 16(b)(1) of this subtitle. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 18-198 Child §2-6 Gift §2-17 Lobby §8-1 Lobbyist §2-20 Public servant §2-23

Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, each report must include the name of each public servant or the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of a public servant to or for whom the lobbyist or any person on the lobbyist’s behalf has given, during the reporting period, 1 or more gifts with a cumulative value of $150 or more, whether or not given in connection with lobbying activities. For reports under subsection (a) of this section, each gift made after the $150 cumulative value is met must be itemized by:date; beneficiary; nature of gift; and value of gift. This section does not apply to gifts reported under § 8-19(d)(1)(ii) or (iii) of this subtitle. Ord. 04-795 Child §2-6 Gift §2-17 Lobby §8-1 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23 Reporting period §8-1

This section applies to an individual who:is a lobbyist under § 8-7 {“Legislative lobbying”} or <cite data-path="|8|§8-8">§ 8-8 {“Executive lobbying”} of this subtitle</cite>; and engages in a business transaction with:any of the following officials:the Mayor; the City Comptroller; the President of the City Council; a member of the City Council; the head of any department; or the head of any bureau or division within a department; or any of the following related persons:the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of an official listed in subitem (A); a business entity in which an official listed in subitem (A) is a proprietor or partner; or a business entity in which an official listed in subitem (A) has an ownership interest of 10% or more. This section does not apply to:an individual who is a lobbyist solely under <cite data-path="|8|§8-9">§ 8-9 {“‘Grass roots’ lobbying”} of this subtitle</cite>; or the person who employs a lobbyist. Each report of a lobbyist subject to this section must disclose any business transaction or series of business transactions that:was with a person listed in subsection (a)(1)(ii) of this section; occurred during the reporting period; and involved consideration of:$1,000 or more for a single transaction; or $5,000 or more for a series of transactions. The disclosure required by this section must include:the date or dates of the transaction or series of transactions; the name and title of the official who was involved in the transaction or series of transactions; the nature of the transaction or series of transactions; and the nature and value of anything exchanged in the transaction or series of transactions. Ord. 04-795 Business entity §2-4 Interest §2-19 Lobbyist §2-20 Official §2-21 Person §2-22 Reporting period §8-1

The Ethics Board may require a lobbyist to file any additional or supplemental reports that the Board considers necessary. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10 Lobbyist §2-20

All reports filed under this subtitle are public documents and must be posted on the Ethics Board’s website. Ord. 18-198

The following activities are exempt from regulation under this subtitle: appearances as part of the official duties of an elected or appointed official or employee of the City, the State, the United States, any other state, or a political subdivision of any of them, to the extent that the appearance is not on behalf of any other person; actions of a member of the news media, to the extent that the actions are in the ordinary course of gathering and disseminating news or making editorial comment to the general public; representation of a bona fide religious organization, to the extent that the representation is for the purpose of protecting the right of its members to practice the doctrine of the organization; or appearances as part of the official duties of an officer, director, member, or employee of an association engaged exclusively in representing the State, counties or municipal corporations, to the extent that the appearance is not in behalf of any other person. Ord. 04-795 Elected official §2-8 Employee §2-9 Person §2-22

The following activities are exempt from regulation under this subtitle if the individual engages in no other acts during the reporting period that require registration:appearances before the City Council, before a committee or subcommittee of the City Council, or before a City agency at the specific request of the body involved; or appearances before the City Council, before a committee or subcommittee of the City Council, or before a City agency at the specific request of a lobbyist, if the witness notifies the body that he or she is testifying at the request of the lobbyist. An elementary, secondary, or pos-tsecondary school student or student organization that communicates as part of a course or student activity is not subject to the registration requirements of this subtitle based on the expense threshold of § 8-7 {“Legislative lobbying”} or <cite data-path="|8|§8-8">§ 8-8 {“Executive lobbying”} of this subtitle</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Agency §2-2 Lobbyist §2-20 Reporting period §8-1

A person that would otherwise be required to register and report under this subtitle need not do so if that person:employs a lobbyist; and reasonably believes that the lobbyist will:register as required by this subtitle; and timely report all expenses incurred in connection with that person’s lobbying activities. A person exempt under subsection (a) of this section must still complete the authorization required by <cite data-path="|8|§8-11">§ 8-11 {“Employer authorization required”} of this subtitle</cite>. If the lobbyist fails to report the information when required by this subtitle, the person previously exempt under this subsection immediately becomes subject to the registration and reporting requirements of this subtitle. Ord. 04-795 Lobby §8-1 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22

A lobbyist may not lobby on behalf of any person for compensation that is dependent in any way on:the passage, enactment, or defeat of any legislation; or any other contingency related to legislative action. A lobbyist may not lobby on behalf of any person for compensation that is dependent in any way on:the outcome of any executive action relating to the solicitation or securing of a procurement contract; or any other contingency related to executive action. Ord. 04-795 Compensation §2-7 Executive action §8-1 Legislative action §8-1 Lobby §8-1 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22

A lobbyist may not make a gift to a public servant, directly or indirectly: if the lobbyist knows or has reason to know that the public servant’s acceptance of the gift would violate Subtitle 6 {“Conflicts of Interest”}, Part IV {“Gifts”} of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>; or if the gift is made as a result of a solicitation or facilitation that the lobbyist knows or has reason to know is prohibited by § 6-26(a)(3). Ord. 04-795 Ord. 11-520 Gift §2-17 Lobbyist §2-20 Public servant §2-23

Unless in the ordinary course of the lobbyist’s business as or for a banking institution, banking association, mortgage broker or lender, sales finance company, or other similarly regulated financial or lending institution, a lobbyist may not make or facilitate the making of any loan of money, goods, or services to a public servant. Ord. 04-795 Lobbyist §2-20 Public servant §2-23

A lobbyist who is an individual may not engage in any charitable fund-raising activity at the request of a public servant, including soliciting a charitable contribution, transmitting the solicitation of a charitable contribution, or transmitting a charitable contribution. Ord. 04-795 Lobbyist §2-20 Public servant §2-23

A lobbyist may not initiate or encourage the introduction of legislation for the purpose of opposing that legislation. Ord. 04-795 Lobbyist §2-20

A lobbyist may not ask a public servant to recommend to a potential client the lobbyist’s services or the services of any other lobbyist. Ord. 04-795 Lobbyist §2-20 Public servant §2-23

While engaging in lobbying activities a lobbyist, or an individual who expects she or he will soon be required to register as a lobbyist, may not knowingly make to a public servant a statement of material fact that relates to the lobbying activity and that the lobbyist knows to be false. While engaging in lobbying activities a lobbyist, or an individual who expects she or he will soon be required to register as a lobbyist, must, in any interaction with a public servant:affirmatively identify themselves as a lobbyist; and identify the person on whose behalf they are lobbying. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 18-198 Lobby §8-1 Lobbyist §2-20 Person §2-22 Public servant §2-23 Ordinance 18-198 (Bill 18-230) amended this section, effective March 3, 2019, to broaden the scope of persons subject to the prohibition in subsection (a) and to require, in subsection (b), certain affirmative disclosures in interactions with a public servant.

Any person required to file a report, statement, or other item under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> must obtain and, for the period specified in <cite data-path="|8|§9-2">§ 9-2 {“Retention period”} of this subtitle</cite>, retain all accounts, bills, receipts, books, papers, documents, and other records necessary to complete and substantiate the report, statement, or other item. Ord. 04-795 Person §2-22

The person must retain the records required by <cite data-path="|8|§9-1">§ 9-1 {“Retention required”} of this subtitle</cite> for at least 3 years from: the date on which the report, statement, or other item was filed; or if the report, statement, or other item was not filed, the date by which it was required to be filed. Ord. 04-795 Person §2-22

On request and reasonable notice, the records required by <cite data-path="|8|§9-1">§ 9-1 {“Retention required”} of this subtitle</cite> must be made available to the Ethics Board or the City Solicitor for inspection. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

If, after considering a complaint brought under Subtitle 5 {“Complaints”} of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Ethics Board determines that the respondent has violated any provision of Subtitle 8 {“Lobbying”} of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Board may take any 1 or more of the following actions: require a respondent who is a lobbyist to file any additional reports or information that reasonably relates to the information required by Subtitle 8; impose a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for each violation; prohibit a respondent from engaging in any lobbying activities intended to influence any City public servant on any matter for a period of not more than 3 years; or take any other action authorized by <cite data-path="|8|§9-4">§ 9-4 {“In general”} of this subtitle</cite>. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 18-198 Ethics Board §2-10 Lobbyist §2-20 Public servant §2-23 Ordinance 18-198 (Bill 18-230) amended this section, effective March 3, 2019, to add the sanction described in item (3).

The Ethics Board may assess a late fee of $10 per day, up to an aggregate maximum of$1,000 per overdue statement, on any public servant who does not file a complete financial disclosure statement on or before the date it is due. Within 30 days after any late fee is assessed under this subsection, a public servant may file a written request with the Ethics Board to reduce or waive the fee for good cause. If a public servant has failed to file a complete financial disclosure statement within 5 days of the date required under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Ethics Board must notify the public servant in writing of the public servant’s noncompliance and of the potential consequences under this section for continued noncompliance. If a public servant has failed to file a complete financial disclosure statement within 15 days of the date required under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Ethics Board must notify the public servant in writing of the public servant’s continued noncompliance and the potential consequences of further continued noncompliance. A copy of the notice sent under this subsection must be sent to:the public servant’s agency head; the Director of Human Resources; and the City Solicitor. If a public servant has failed to file a complete financial disclosure statement within 30 days of the date required under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Ethics Board must refer the matter in writing to the Office of the Inspector General for investigation. A copy of the Board’s referral made under this subsection must be sent to:the public servant; the public servant’s agency head; the Director of Human Resources; and the City Solicitor. If a public servant has failed to file a complete financial disclosure statement within 60 days of the date required under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Ethics Board may refer the matter to the public servant’s agency head, the Director of Human Resources, and the City Solicitor, with a recommendation that the public servant be suspended from office without pay until the financial disclosure statement is filed. A referral for suspension must include copies of the notices to the public servant required under this section. Regardless of whether any action is taken against the public servant, a copy of the Board’s referral must be included in the public servant’s agency personnel file. This subsection does not apply to elected officials. Ord. 19-287 Ord. 19-332 Elected official §2-8 Ethics Board §2-10 Public servant §2-23 This § 9-5.1 was added by Ordinance 19-287, effective February 25, 2020.

The Ethics Board may file a petition in Circuit Court, on behalf of the Mayor and City Council, to compel compliance with or seek other relief under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. The remedies authorized in <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite> are cumulative, and the court may grant all or part of the relief sought. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

In an action brought under <cite data-path="|8|§9-6">§ 9-6 {“Petition to court”} of this subtitle</cite>, the court may compel compliance with <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>: by issuing an order to cease and desist from a violation; or by granting other injunctive relief. Ord. 04-795

In an action brought under <cite data-path="|8|§9-6">§ 9-6 {“Petition to court”} of this subtitle</cite>, the court may impose a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for any violation of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>. For this purpose, each day on which a violation occurs is a separate offense. Ord. 04-795

Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, in an action brought under <cite data-path="|8|§9-6">§ 9-6 {“Petition to court”} of this subtitle</cite>, the court may void an official act of a public servant if:the public servant had a conflict of interest that is prohibited by <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>; the act arose from or concerned the subject matter of the conflict; the proceeding was brought within 90 days after the act occurred; and the court determines that the conflict had an impact on the act. The court may not void any contract previously approved by the Board of Estimates without the express consent of the Board of Estimates. The court may not void any official act that:appropriates public funds; levies a tax; or provides for the issuance of a bond, note, or other evidence of public obligation. Ord. 04-795 Public servant §2-23

Except as provided in <cite data-path="|8|§9-12">§ 9-12 {“Exceptions”} of this subtitle</cite>, the Board of Estimates may void a contract with the City if:a public servant had a conflict of interest that is prohibited by <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>; the contract arose from or concerned the subject matter of the conflict; and the Board determines that the conflict had an impact on the contract. In taking action under this section, the Board of Estimates may void a contract:in whole or in part; and on the terms and conditions that the Board sets. Ord. 04-795 Public servant §2-23

The Board of Estimates may not void any contract under this subtitle that provides for the issuance of a bond, note, or other evidence of public obligation. Ord. 04-795

In addition to any other penalty imposed under <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, if the Ethics Board finds that a public servant, other than an elected official, has violated a provision of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>: the public servant may be removed or subjected to other disciplinary action by the appropriate authority; and if the public servant is subject to a Board or court order that directs compliance, the public servant may not be paid any salary or other compensation pending full compliance with the order. Ord. 04-795 Compensation §2-7 Elected official §2-8 Ethics Board §2-10 Public servant §2-23

If the Ethics Board finds that an elected official has violated a provision of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, the Board must report its findings to the Mayor and the City Council for appropriate action. Ord. 04-795 Elected official §2-8 Ethics Board §2-10

If, while considering a complaint, the Ethics Board finds that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the respondent has committed a criminal offense, the Board must promptly refer the matter to the appropriate prosecuting authority. The Ethics Board must make available to the prosecuting authority all pertinent evidence under its control. Ord. 04-795 Ethics Board §2-10

Any person who knowingly violates a provision of Subtitle 8 {“Lobbying”} of <cite data-path="|8">this article</cite>, or fails to comply with an administrative sanction imposed under <cite data-path="|8|§9-5">§ 9-5 {“Lobbying violations”} of this subtitle</cite>, is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment of not more than 12 months or both. If the person is a business or other entity, each officer or partner of the entity who knowingly authorizes or participates in the violation is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to the penalty specified in subsection (a) of this section. Ord. 04-795 Ord. 18-198 Business entity §2-4 Person §2-22 Ordinance 18-198 (Bill 18-230) amended subsection (a), effective March 3, 2019, to include as an additional potential offense, “fail[ure] to comply with an administrative sanction under § 9-5”.