(a) Findings.
(1) The County Council, recognizing that our system of representative government is dependent upon the people maintaining the highest trust in County officials and employees, finds and declares that the people have a right to be assured that the impartiality and independent judgment of County officials and employees will be maintained.
(2) It is evident that this confidence and trust is eroded when the conduct of the County's business is subject to improper influence or even the appearance of improper influence.
(b) Policy. For the purpose of guarding against improper influence, the County Council enacts this public ethics law to require certain County officials and employees to disclose their financial affairs and to set minimum ethical standards for the conduct of County business.
(c) Liberal construction. The County Council intends that this article, except its provisions for criminal sanctions, be liberally construed to accomplish its purpose.
(1985 Code, Art. 9, § 1-102) (Bill No. 38-03)
State Code reference – General Provisions Article, § 5-102.