Legislative Ethics Board Advisory Opinions
Topic
Ballot Measures - Use of Public Resources
Issue/Question
LEB Opinion Issue/Question
The request for this
opinion sought clarification on the use of public resources in connection with
initiatives.
Summary
LEB Opinion Summary
The restrictions found in RCW
42.52.180 apply equally to a legislator-sponsor of an initiative and other
legislators. It is improper to use legislative staff to announce a campaign for
an initiative. Public areas of the capitol building, such as the capitol steps,
are often used for political rallies by the public and may be used for that
purpose by legislators on an equal access basis.
Document
LEB Advisory Opinion Document
Review Outcome and Date
Reviewed in June 2022 and retained. See Advisory Opinion 2021 – No. 1