Civil Service Procedures & Ethics Flashcards

What does 'nepotism' mean in a government employment context?

Answer: Favoring relatives or friends in hiring and promotion decisions

Nepotism is the practice of giving preferential treatment in employment to relatives or personal acquaintances rather than the most qualified candidates.

What is the purpose of the NJ Open Public Records Act (OPRA)?

Answer: To allow the public to request and access government records

OPRA provides New Jersey residents the right to access government records held by public agencies, promoting government transparency.

Under NJ civil service regulations, what does 'political activity restriction' mean for certain employees?

Answer: They are prohibited from engaging in partisan political activities while on duty or in their official capacity

NJ civil service law restricts certain employees from using their official position for partisan political purposes to ensure neutral government service.

What is 'whistleblower protection' in the NJ CEPA (Conscientious Employee Protection Act)?

Answer: Legal protection for employees who report employer violations of law or public policy

CEPA protects NJ employees from retaliation when they report, refuse to participate in, or object to employer conduct that violates law or public policy.

Which of the following is an example of 'abuse of position' by a government employee?

Answer: Using a government vehicle for personal errands unrelated to official duties

Using government resources—including vehicles—for personal purposes constitutes an abuse of position and may violate state ethics rules.

What is the primary reason civil service employees are prohibited from accepting bribes?

Answer: To ensure government decisions are made in the public interest, not for personal gain

Prohibiting bribes ensures government officials make decisions based on law and public interest rather than personal financial benefit.