California Registered Environmental Health Specialis (REHS)- Inspection/Investigation Practice Exam

Malfeasance is defined as engaging in wrongful or illegal acts, which directly addresses conduct that is outright unlawful or improper in fulfilling one’s duties. This definition encompasses actions that not only violate legal statutes but also transcend the boundary of acceptable professional behavior. In legal contexts, malfeasance often refers to acts committed with discretion that are deliberately harmful or unlawful, and it can lead to severe consequences, including legal liability and disciplinary actions.

For instance, a public official who embezzles funds is engaging in malfeasance, as their actions are both wrongful and illegal. This term is specifically used to distinguish between acts performed with intent to violate the law and those that might occur due to negligence or oversight, which are not classified as malfeasance. By understanding this definition, it is crucial for professionals, especially in fields regulated by law such as environmental health, to recognize the significance of lawful and ethical conduct in their practice.