Finding a new job just got more complicated for federal employees

Rob Kelner is quoted by The Hill in an article regarding the imposition of stricter ethics rules on federal employees seeking jobs in the private sector. According to Kelner, “The upshot is, executive branch employees should assume that they’re going to have to recuse themselves very early in the process of being considered by a particular company. That’s just going to become the norm.”

Kelner adds, “It’s not unusual with campaign finance, government ethics, or lobbying regulations for there not to be any comments.” He continues, “It’s a problem. People are afraid to raise their hand and comment on government ethics regulations, so the agency has no input from the regulated community.”

Commenting on the fact that companies hire government officials without even realizing restrictions are in place, Kelner says, “You’d be amazed at the number of companies that hire people from the Hill or the administration who don’t even think about the revolving door requirements.” He says, “Most of the burden is placed on the employee, but the consequences are shared equally between the company and the employee.” He adds, “Post-employment rules are very complex. There are gray areas.”