Type Complaint Opinion 
Date 8/21/2003 
Number 03-11 
Topic Unemployment compensation - jurisdiction 
Respondent Sen. Joe Zarelli 
Question/Complaint
The complaint alleges the respondent violated the intent section of the Ethics Act, RCW 42.52.900, by collecting unemployment compensation without reporting his legislative salary to the Washington State Employment Security Department.
Summary
The intent section is a statement of values and may be helpful in interpreting a substantive provision of the Act, but it is not self-executing and standing alone does not confer jurisdiction on the Board - Complaints 2000 - No's. 3, 4, and 5.  The Act does not encompass disputes with the State of Washington over this compensation issue.  Complaint dismissed for lack of jurisdiction.  RCW 42.52.320(1)
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