Title: An act relating to distribution of communications by state employees.

Brief Description: Regulating distribution of communications by state employees.

Sponsors: Senators Kline, Benton, Keiser, Fairley, Fraser and Haugen.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 1/30/06.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS

Staff: Diane Smith (786-7410)

Background: In general, the Ethics in Public Service chapter prohibits a state officer or employee from using that position for his or her personal benefit or for the benefit of another.
Prohibited activities include using persons, money or property under the control of the officer or employee for the officer or employee's personal gain; soliciting or receiving gifts or favors that could reasonably be expected to influence the officer or employee's vote or judgement, or be considered as a reward for action or inaction; and using state facilities to assist a campaign or to support or oppose a ballot proposition. State facilities include use of state employees during working hours, vehicles, office space, publications of the agency, and clientele lists. The chapter also includes exceptions and limitations on these prohibitions.

Summary of Bill: State employees are not prohibited by the Ethics in Public Service chapter from distributing communications from an employee organization or charitable organization to other state employees, unless the communications support or oppose a ballot proposition or candidate for state or local office.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.