This statute prohibits all employees (including SGEs) from participating in any particular Government matter that will have a direct and predictable effect on their financial interests. It also prohibits employees from acting in Government matters that will affect the financial interests of others with whom they have certain relationships. These relationships are:
- Spouse
- Minor child
- General partner
- Organization which the individual serves as officer, director, trustee, general partner or employee
- Person or organization with which the employee is negotiating or has an arrangement concerning prospective employment.
Because SGEs typically have substantial outside employment and other interests which are often related to the subject areas for which the Government desires their services, issues under section 208 frequently arise. (Link to 18 U.S.C. 208)