Legislative Ethics Board Advisory Opinions

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Type
Advisory Opinion
Date
8/8/1996
Number
96-10
Topic
Gifts - Complimentary Admission - Lobbyists - Reasonable Expectation
Issue/Question

Lobbyist for a corporation which sponsors Seafair seeks to offer complimentary admission to legislators to attend hydroplane races.  Value exceeds $50.

Summary

Acceptance of the invitation would violate the Act.  (1) This is purely a sporting event and there is no official purpose served by the legislator's attendance.  (2) When such an invitation comes from a lobbyist or lobbyist-employer, the "reasonable expectation" statute, RCW 42.52.140, will be strictly construed.  RCW 42.52.010(9)(d) and 42.52.150(2)(g).

Document
Review Outcome and Date
Reviewed in October 2022 – retained