Type Complaint Opinion 
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.
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