Chapter 4

Nepotism

City employees and officials are also subject to state laws regarding nepotism. Nepotism is defined as the “bestowal of political patronage by reason of relationship rather than of merit.” It is unlawful to appoint a person who is related by blood (consanguinity) or marriage (affinity) to any position of “trust or emolument” (meaning any office or employment that results in compensation or privilege) within certain degrees of relationship. While state law related to nepotism applies only to these relationships, the appearance of favoritism with regard to friends or acquaintances of employees or officials can also be a hindrance to the public’s trust in city government.

Quick Links:
City of Bozeman Ethics Handbook, version 4
City of Bozeman Code of Ethics
Montana Code Annotated, Code of Ethics