News That Stays News: End of the Year, End of Congress Ethics and PAC Guidance

As 2014—and the 113^th Congress—draw to a close, some common end of the year and end of Congress questions are beginning to arise:  What holiday gifts are permissible under government ethics rules? May congressional and executive branch officials attend holiday receptions?  Do the congressional gift rules apply to Members-elect and may private entities or individuals sponsor events honoring new Members and incumbents?  What are the rules on departing Members and congressional staff negotiating for private sector employment?  With the midterm elections just over, is this a good time to audit the political action committee (PAC)?

Here are some articles on these perennial subjects from past issues of the Election Law News.  The guidance remains timely, and important, today.

• ‘Tis the Season: Ethics Guidance to Keep in Mind for the Holidays (November 2013). This article discusses attendance at holiday events, and acceptance of other holiday gifts, under congressional, executive branch, and state gift rules.
  
• Ring out the Old, Ring in the New: Ethics Guidance to Keep in Mind as the 111th Congress Ends and the 112th Begins (November 2010). This article discusses the application of congressional gift rules to holiday parties and gifts, to gifts for Members-elect, and to swearing-in and other honorific events.  Also discusses employment negotiations and agreements with departing Members and staff.
  
• Now Is the Time to Review Your PAC and Political Operations (November 2010). This article discusses four suggested steps for corporation and association PACs to implement at this opportune time to takes stock of the previous election cycle and to prepare for the upcoming presidential election cycle.