Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest

Conflict of interest disclosure requirements, passed by the 79th Texas Legislature in HB 914, became effective January 1, 2006. Local Government Code, Chapter 176, requires school districts to maintain a public Internet list of local government officers and disclosure statements covering conflicts of interest.

At Woodson ISD, this responsibility is addressed through the use of Conflict of Interest forms, which help ensure that any potential relationships or interests that could influence district business are disclosed openly and in compliance with state law.

Legal Requirements

Disclosure is required of officers of the district and their family members with regard to persons or agents contracting with the District—or responding to quotations, bids, proposals, or requests for qualifications—if:

• The person has employment or another business relationship with the officer or a family member, resulting in taxable income; or

• The person has given the officer or family member one or more gifts (excluding food, lodging, transportation, and entertainment) that have an aggregate value of more than $250 in the twelve months preceding the date the officer becomes aware of a potential or executed contract.

Statements must be filed within seven business days after the officer becomes aware a conflict of interest exists.

Forms and Oversight

Each year, employees, vendors, and trustees complete forms such as the Conflict of Interest Questionnaire (CIQ) and the Conflicts Disclosure Statement (CIS). These documents are designed to identify situations where personal or financial connections might impact district contracts or purchasing decisions.

By requiring these disclosures, Woodson ISD:

• Protects the public trust

• Promotes fairness in procurement

• Upholds accountability to students, families, and the community

The Board of Trustees reviews these filings as part of its oversight role, reinforcing the district’s commitment to ethical practices and transparent governance.