Gifts

The general rule is that gifts, direct or indirect, from employers and lobbyists to a candidate for public office, an official in the legislative or executive branch (including all employees of both), or the immediate family of the candidate or official are prohibited. In addition, these individuals cannot attempt to solicit, directly or indirectly, a gift from a lobbyist or an employer. See T.C.A. § 3-6-305. Note: Certain items are, by statute, excluded from the definition of gift, including campaign contributions and the waiver of a conference or registration fee.

Over the next several pages, the training will detail the exemptions to the gift prohibition.  When applying these exceptions to the gift ban, employers and lobbyists should use caution.  If at any time there is a question as to whether a gift qualifies under an exception to the gift ban, the employee should contact the Commission for advice as detailed in the Seeking Advice section of the training.