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Session Overview: In public procurement, the appearance of a conflict can be as damaging as the conflict itself. This session merges the ethical standards of the Virginia Public Procurement Act (VPPA) and the Agency Procurement and Surplus Property Manual (APSPM) with the practical necessity of reporting concerns. We will discuss the "Duty to Serve" vs. the "Personal Interest," explore how to handle vendors who push boundaries, and provide a clear roadmap for reporting suspected fraud, waste, or abuse.

Learning objectives:

• Correctly identify "personal interests" and "pecuniary interests" as defined by VPPA Article 6.
• Apply the "Zero-Tolerance" and "Nominal Value" rules to vendor interactions, including prohibited gratuities, meals, and the specific ethical pitfalls associated with surplus property disposal.
• Navigate the hierarchy of reporting—from internal department protocols and the City/County Attorney to the Office of the State Inspector General (OSIG)—ensuring the correct channel is used for the specific concern.