Complaint Opinion 06-04

​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?

​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.