While interviewing a construction executive job seeker, I discovered that his spouse works for our competition. While he is the best construction executive job seeker for this position, I am wondering if there will be a conflict of interest. Can I consider this when making my decision?

Yes. The laws of many states prohibit marital status discrimination -- discrimination against someone because she is married, single or divorced. However, you are not required to hire or promote a worker who, because of her spouse's job, might have a conflict of interest.