Wyoming Constitution article 14. Public Officers.
Wyoming Constitution – Article 14: Public Officers
🔹 Overview:
Article 14 of the Wyoming Constitution addresses the structure, qualifications, duties, and limitations placed on public officers at both the state and local levels. It ensures accountability, fair compensation, and ethical standards in public service.
🔹 Key Sections & Provisions:
§1 – Legislature to Provide for Election or Appointment:
The Legislature must provide for the election or appointment of all state, district, and county officers whose selection is not otherwise specified in the Constitution.
§2 – Incompatible Offices:
No person shall hold more than one office at the same time in the state, county, or municipality if the offices are considered incompatible.
§3 – Increase or Decrease of Salaries:
Salaries of public officers cannot be changed during their term of office, ensuring fairness and avoiding conflicts of interest.
§4 – Term of Office:
The Legislature determines the length of terms for most public officers, unless otherwise specified in the Constitution.
§5 – Salaries Must Be Fixed by Law:
Salaries of public officers must be established by law, not arbitrarily set.
§6 – Extra Compensation Prohibited:
Public officers are prohibited from receiving extra compensation, bonuses, or unauthorized payment beyond their legal salary.
§7 – Misappropriation of Public Funds:
Any public officer who embezzles or misuses public money is guilty of a felony, and upon conviction, is disqualified from holding public office.
§8 – Bribery and Corruption:
Public officers involved in bribery or corruption forfeit their office and are barred from future public service in the state.
§9 – Oath of Office:
All public officers must take an oath to support the Constitution of the United States and the State of Wyoming and to faithfully perform their duties.
§10 – Removal from Office:
Officers may be removed by law, either through impeachment or other legal means.
🔹 Summary:
Article 14 emphasizes:
Ethical governance,
Transparency and fairness in compensation,
Strict accountability for misuse of office or public funds,
The Legislature’s authority to regulate many aspects of public service.
It reflects Wyoming’s strong stance on integrity in public office and provides mechanisms to prevent and punish abuse.
RELATED Blog
0 comments