Complaint Opinion 06-04
Date
01/13/2007
Number
06-04
Topic
Improper Means, Special Privilege - Use of Office
Respondent
Dave Schmidt
Question/Complaint
May a legislator use his office and/or public resources in an effort to exact concessions from a home builder on behalf of the legislator's friend?
Summary
No. While legislators may assist constituents through use of their office and public resources such intervention is not unlimited. When a legislator becomes an advocate, public resources and the office of the legislator may be used on behalf of a constituent if a government official or government office is involved or if the constituent is seeking assistance on legislative issues. RCW 42.52.070 and RCW 42.52.160. Respondent stipulated to a violation and a Letter of Instruction.