Shelley Zumwalt fined $20K in ethics settlement over conflict of interest

Former state tourism director Shelley Zumwalt has agreed to a settlement with the Oklahoma Ethics Commission following an investigation into her time leading the state’s employment agency.

Ethics complaint centered on conflict of interest

The commission found Zumwalt approved multiple contracts with a company where her husband worked as a vice president. The contracts were executed during her tenure as head of the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission.

Zumwalt admits lapse in judgment

As part of the settlement, Zumwalt acknowledged she should have recused herself from negotiations involving the company. However, the agreement notes she did not intentionally violate ethics rules.

Penalties and restrictions

Under the terms of the settlement, Zumwalt will pay a $20,000 fine to the state. In addition, she agreed not to take any employment with the state of Oklahoma for the next two years.

Career background

Before leading the state’s tourism department, Zumwalt held multiple roles in state government, including at the Office of Management and Enterprise Services and the Employment Commission.

What’s next?

The Ethics Commission has not indicated whether any further action will be pursued.

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