Complaint Opinion 22-14 and 15
Date
07/25/2023
Number
2022 -- No. 14 & 15
Topic
Use of State Resource for Campaign Purposes
Respondent
Sens. Dhingra, Randall, Shewmake, Robinson & Lovelett. Reps. Thai, Bateman, Ramel, Lekanoff, Slatter, Rule
Question/Complaint
Has RCW 42.52.180, prohibiting the use of state resources for campaign purposes, been violated when legislators attend a campaign event organized by the Governor’s staff using the state resources of other state agencies?
Summary
Yes. The Board ruled that attendance at such an event using the resources of another state agency constitutes the “indirect use of state resources” and violates .180. The Board further ruled that legislators need to be cognizant of what resources are being used during campaign events when state agencies are involved. The ruling is prospective.