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Legislative Ethics Board > Formal Board Opinions > Complaint Opinions > 2006 > 2006-04


Type Complaint
Date 1/13/2007
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 constitutent 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.