Legislative Ethics Board Complaint Opinions

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Type
Complaint Opinion
Date
2/10/2020
Number
2019 – No. 8
Topic
Special Privileges; Private Gain
Respondent
Rep. Sharon Tomiko Santos
Question/Complaint
Did Respondent violate RCW 42.52.070 or RCW 42.52.160 by communicating with Complainant in what he perceived as a derogatory fashion; disparaging his skills and abilities; or requiring that he remain in the office late during session contrary to an established workplan? Did Respondent violate RCW 42.52.050 by disclosing personal information about Complainant to persons not entitled to receive it?
Summary
The Respondent did not violate RCW 42.52.070 or .160 in her actions involving Complainant. The Board found that the provisions of ESHB 2018, which amended RCW 42.52.070 to include harassment, do not apply in this matter because the behavior complained of occurred before ESHB 2018 went into effect and the bill was not made retroactive. The Respondent did violate RCW 42.52.050.
Document