This post is the first in the series, “Do you know…” about information that may be useful to, but not well known by, university faculty.

Do you know state ethics laws?

Washington State has strict ethics laws.  The Ethics in Public Service Act (Chapter 42.52 of the RCW) does have important implications for faculty, but sometimes the rules for state employees in general are hard to map onto faculty roles.  Here are some places to start, and regularly review:

• WWU Internal Auditor summary of relevant RCW
• WWU Human Resources ethics page
• Washington State Executive Ethics Board
  • For example, can we sell examination copies of textbooks?  (Spoiler: No)
  • Recommendations for faculty adopting self-authored textbooks
• Faculty Union Contract Memo of Understanding: Outside Compensated Professional Activities
• Faculty Senate Handbook Code of Faculty Ethics