| Advisory opinion request as to the application of the Code of Governmental Ethics to the members of the Jefferson Parish Fire Civil Service Board. |
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The Jefferson Parish Fire Civil Service Board (Board) consists of three members. One is selected from a list provided by a local university, the second is appointed by the governing authority, and the third is elected by the members of the East Bank Consolidated Special Services Fire District. The newest member to the Board, Craig Burkett, who was elected by the members of the East Bank Consolidated Special Services Fire District is also a member of the classified fire service and also holds the position of Vice-President of the Jefferson Parish Fire Fighters Association, Local 1374, International Association of Fire Fighters (Union), that represents the employees. Mr. Burkett is paid a small salary by the Union for his services, as well as expenses and a per diem.
La. R.S. 42:457.1 allows an employee of the state or of any political subdivision of the state to voluntarily authorize his employer to withhold from his salary payment of his dues to any professional state or local law enforcement or firefighter association. The amounts withheld must then be remitted to the designated organization. The dues paid by members of the Union entitles them, among other things, to have the Union represent them in matters before the Board.
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La. R.S. 42:1111E prohibits a public servant or a legal entity of which such public servant is an officer, director, trustee, partner, or employee from receiving any thing of economic value for assisting a person in a transaction with the agency of the public servant.
La. R.S. 42:1102(16) defines "person" to mean an individual or legal entity other than a governmental entity, or an agency thereof.
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Adopt the proposed advisory opinion.
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| Assigned Attorney: |
Jennifer Land |
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