Governor Katie Hobbs signed an executive order prohibiting Arizona state executive-branch employees from using nonpublic government information to profit on prediction markets. By designating such information as confidential for this purpose, the order aims to keep state workers focused on public service rather than personal gain.
"Arizonans deserve a state government that works for them, not one where insiders exploit public service for their own gain," Hobbs said. "I'm proud to set clear, commonsense ethical standards on prediction markets to hold our government accountable."
The order follows media reports and federal indictments showing government employees outside Arizona used nonpublic information to win large sums wagering on government actions, including international military operations. It strictly forbids executive-branch employees from disclosing or using any nonpublic information to profit, avoid a loss, or help others profit from prediction markets.
Any violation may result in dismissal, other sanctions and a referral to law enforcement. The governor also encouraged other statewide elected officials, independent boards and commissions, and the judicial and legislative branches to adopt comparable policies for their employees.
