A conflict of interest occurs when an elected official's personal interests—financial, family, or otherwise—could improperly influence their judgment on a public matter. Municipal conflict of interest legislation (which varies by province) requires councillors to declare conflicts and usually withdraw from discussion and voting on affected matters. Failing to declare conflicts can result in serious consequences including removal from office. Common conflicts involve decisions affecting a councillor's property, employer, family members, or business interests. Codes of conduct and integrity commissioners help interpret conflict rules. The purpose is ensuring decisions are made in the public interest, free from improper personal considerations.