The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
Ethics
Ethics in Local Government
While Michigan has several statutes governing the various aspects of ethics in government at both the state and local levels, local government entities may, by ordinance, establish and enforce ethics regulations for local public officials and public employees to the extent provided by law and/or charter.
This webpage is designed to assist municipalities of all types in designing and implementing an ethics ordinance that best fits their needs and resources.
This office has developed this model ordinance language as a means of assisting local officials in drafting an ethics ordinance for their local unit of government. While the adoption of such an ordinance is not required by state law, the information contained on this site is designed for local officials to adopt an ethics ordinance.
THE GOVERNING BODY OF EACH GOVERNMENTAL UNIT SHOULD SEEK THE ADVICE OF ITS LEGAL COUNSEL WHEN DRAFTING ITS ETHICS ORDINANCE.
Resources
Model Ethics Forms
State Acts
- Political Activities of Public Employees Act MCL 15.401
- Whistleblower's Protection Act MCL 15.361
- Contracts of Public Servants with Public Entities Act MCL 15.321
- Standards of Conduct for Public Officers and Employees (State Ethics Act) MCL 15.341
- Incompatible Office Act MCL 15.181
- Michigan Penal Code MCL 750.1
- Michigan Campaign Finance Act MCL 169.201
- Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) MCL 15.231
- Open Meetings Act MCL 15.261