Appearance of Loss of Impartiality

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-001880",
  "term": "Appearance of Loss of Impartiality",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "In carrying out their official duties, employees must first consider whether there are any factors that would cause a reasonable person with knowledge of the relevant facts to question their impartiality. Before participating, employees must seek clearance from an ethics official. Such circumstances include, but are not limited to, participating in a specific party matter that will have a direct and predictable financial effect upon a member of their household or if any of the following are involved: a close relative; the employee’s former employer in the past year; or the employer of their spouse, parent, or child (even if an adult).",
  "subject": "Policy and guidance",
  "references": [
    "EPA 2025 Scientific Integrity Policy"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/appearance-of-loss-of-impartiality/"
}