Limits on Use of Political Contributions

The Texas Ethics Commission has issued advisory opinions considering specific situations regarding the personal use of political contributions restriction. Below is a brief description of the situations considered in the advisory opinions. If your situation is not on the list, do not assume that it is permissible. If in doubt, call the Ethics Commission Legal Division at 512-463-5800.

Impermissible Use of Contributions

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Subject	EAO
Laundry and dry cleaning expenses (considers IRS standard)	104
Judge's expenses of maintaining residence in city in which court sits; commuting expenses	133
Certain investments, such as the purchase of stock primarily to support a family business or the purchase of an investment instrument (i.e., a work of art) that is displayed in the candidate/officeholder's home; loan of political funds, especially to family	224
Meals in Austin by legislator - not connected with state business	241
Governor's and family's travel on personal trip	297
Expenses of defending lawsuits brought in private professional capacity	363
Expenses of legislator's spouse for social events	378
Family recreation or entertainment	405
Costs attributable to personal use of asset (must apportion car cost)	430
A license fee unless the license is required for the office held or sought	432
Contributions accepted as municipal court judge to campaign for office of statutory county court judge	439
Contribution to a trust fund established for the benefit of an individual to pay for medical needs	483
Entertainment event tickets for spouse and dependent children if primary purpose is to build relationships with donors or potential donors	521
Political contributions “accepted” by a candidate-established or controlled GPAC may not be used to pay the controlling candidate or officeholder a salary	569