The California Political Reform Act (“Act”), as it relates to the University, states in pertinent part, “[p]ublic officials, whether elected or appointed, should perform their duties in an impartial manner, free from bias caused by their own financial interests or the financial interests of persons who have supported them.” As such, the Act requires certain state and local government officials to publicly disclose their private economic interests on the Form 700 Statement of Economic Interests. Additionally, it requires that all government (University) employees disqualify themselves from participating in decisions in which they have a personal financial interest.

The University’s Conflict of Interest Code adopts and incorporates portions of the Act, identifying those positions on each campus and at the Office of the President which are required to file a From 700 Statement of Economic Interest. University employees may also be subject to other UC policies and procedures in addition to other conflict of interest laws. On this site you will find links to some of these policies and laws.

The University's policy on conflict of interest is that none of its faculty, staff, managers, or officials shall engage in any activities that place them in a conflict of interest between their official activities and any other interest or obligation. Personnel Policies for Staff Members 82, Conflict of Interest provides a summary of a number of University conflict of interest policies. In addition, the Office of the President has issued a Compendium of Specialized Policies, Guidelines, and Regulations relating to Conflict of Interest (Compendium) in recognition of the need for guidance in this area as well as in the related areas of ethical standards and codes of conduct.

The Compendium is intended for the use of University employees should the question of a possible conflict of interest arise. If you, after considering these policies, guidelines, and regulations, are still uncertain about the propriety of a particular action or relationship in connection with University duties, please consult the UCSB Conflict of Interest Coordinator for additional guidance.