Frequently Asked Questions about Ethics Training for Local Agencies

Frequently Asked Questions about Ethics Training for Local Agencies By Chris Micheli

            Are local agency officers and employees required to have ethics training? Yes, California Government Code Section 53235 requires all local agency officials to receive training in ethics if that local agency provides any type of compensation or reimburses expenses for members of a legislative body.

How long is the ethics training required? Each local agency official is required to receive at least two hours of training in general ethics principles and ethics laws relevant to his or her public service every two years.

            Do state agencies play a role this ethics training? Yes, the Fair Political Practices Commission and the Attorney General must be consulted regarding the sufficiency and accuracy of any proposed course content.

What are the details about the required ethics training? A local agency, or group of agencies, may offer training courses, including self-study materials with tests, and these courses may be taken in any location. The training has to be offered at least once annually.

            When must training be received? Section 53235.1 requires new agency officials to receive their training within the first year of employment. Thereafter, they must receive training at least once every two years.

            Are records required to be kept? Yes, Section 53235.2 requires the local agencies to maintain records of attendance and providers for at least five years after local officials receive their training and these records and public records subject to disclosure.

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