Legislative Ethics Board Advisory Opinions
Topic
Gifts - Reasonable Expectation - Spouse's Traveling Expenses
Issue/Question
LEB Opinion Issue/Question
May the spouse of a legislator accept reimbursement from friends for travel expenses incurred while accompanying the legislator to an out-of-state legislative conference?
Summary
LEB Opinion Summary
Yes. Under these narrow facts the gift exemption found in RCW 42.52.010(9) is applicable. The Board cautions legislators that their acceptance of payment for their spouse's travel, lodging or recreational fees would in most cases be subject to the $50 gift limit and may violate the reasonable expectation rule found in RCW 42.52.140.
Document
LEB Advisory Opinion Document
Review Outcome and Date
Reviewed in October 2022 – retained