Advisory Opinion 96-10
Date
08/08/1996
Number
96-10
Requester
Normal Stanley, Gov’t Affairs, Texaco
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).