Instructions

Assignment Directions

Create a five-page essay that elaborates on the key ethical issues in federal government contracting and the differences between legislative and executive branch regulations in ethical behavior. Include the degree to which commercial contractors are bound by federal regulations.

Remember, the two branches operate independently of each other. The DoD is an example of an executive branch department. The U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services is an example of a congressional (legislative) branch organization. Utilize library articles and class resources.

Discuss the ethical standards for executive branch employees (e.g., conflict of interest, impartiality, gift acceptance), as described in 5 CFR Part 2635.

Compare differences between executive and congressional ethics systems, referencing real-world examples (such as the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge Act).