Legislative Ethics Board Advisory Opinions

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Type
Advisory Opinion
Date
6/12/1997
Number
97-06
Topic
Gifts - Special Privileges
Issue/Question

Seattle Yacht Club offered temporary memberships to legislators, which allow entry into the Club restaurant and events, for $10 annually.  May legislators accept the offer?

Summary

No.  Statute refers to "value" not "cost."  The value is clearly in excess of $50.  Board also concluded that the exception for gifts permitted to be given to "broad based" group was not applicable.  The "special privileges" statute would also be violated if the offer was accepted.  RCW 42.52.070 and 42.52.150.

Document
Review Outcome and Date
Reviewed in October 2022 – retained