Which agency is responsible for deciding if a federal employee has violated conflict of interest statutes?

The Department of Justice is the agency responsible for deciding if a federal employee has violated conflict of interest statutes. This responsibility is primarily delegated to the Office of Legal Counsel within the Department, which provides legal advice and interpretations of the laws that govern ethical conduct and conflict of interest. When issues arise regarding potential violations, the Department of Justice conducts investigations and takes the necessary actions to address any misconduct.

Understanding this point is essential for anyone working in the realm of public service and ethics, as it outlines the procedural framework within which ethical concerns are addressed. The other agencies listed handle specific areas related to their respective missions and may deal with ethics in broader contexts, but the enforcement of conflict of interest statutes falls primarily under the jurisdiction of the Department of Justice.