GA HB1444

Establishes a code of ethics for Clayton County officials and employees prohibiting conflicts of interest, misuse of confidential information, acceptance of improper gifts (exceeding $100 in nonpecuniary value), and use of official position for private gain or unwarranted privileges

Creates a seven-member Board of Ethics (plus two alternates) taking office January 1, 2025, with five members appointed by the Clayton County grand jury, two by the tax commissioner, and alternates by the clerk of Superior Court, serving staggered three-year terms with a two-consecutive-term limit

Establishes a full-time ethics officer (must be a State Bar of Georgia member with five years' legal experience) appointed by the board of ethics for up to six years, responsible for education, training, compliance monitoring, operating an ethics hotline, and reporting suspected violations

Prohibits the county from entering contracts with officials, employees, or businesses in which they have an interest, and bars contracts or favorable official actions involving any person who was a county official or employee within the preceding two years

Authorizes penalties for violations including administrative sanctions up to $1,000, public reprimand, and upon criminal conviction a fine of up to $1,000 per violation and up to six months' imprisonment, with decisions subject to certiorari review by Clayton County Superior Court