Bill 206: Conflict of Interest and Integrity Act

This bill primarily affects people who work in or around Nova Scotia's provincial government — politicians, political staffers, and public servants — rather than private businesses directly. However, businesses that bid on or hold government contracts in Nova Scotia should be aware that former ministers and ministerial assistants are barred from accepting government contracts for 12 months after leaving office, and former members and public employees for six months. Companies that hire former government officials or engage them as lobbyists or consultants to pursue government contracts need to track these cooling-off periods carefully. Businesses awarded contracts through non-open-tender processes where a current member's spouse or family has an interest must also be disclosed, which could create scrutiny for smaller firms with personal ties to elected officials.