Advisory Opinion 95-15

​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?

​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.

Retained