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Advisory opinion request regarding whether the Director of the New Orleans Employees' Retirement System, Jesse Evans Jr., may accept a door prize he received at a Louisiana Trustee Education Council (LATEC) symposium. |
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At the conclusion of a three day event, the Board Members of LATEC conducted a drawing for two $3000 scholarships. The scholarships allow the winners to attend educational events of his or her choice at the expense of LATEC - an organization whose purpose, among other things, is to educate board members and employees of various retirement systems around the state regarding their responsibilities and how to better serve their systems and respective funds as fiduciaries.
The symposium was paid for by Mr. Evans' agency through his membership dues. While Mr. Evans attended in his capacity as a public employee, he was not required to attend by his agency. He is, however, expected to be knowledgeable and educated on the subjects covered at the symposium.
The symposium was not just open to public employees or board members of the retirement systems, but various other groups were there including private attorneys, financial advisors, and accountants. Although private persons could attend the event, they were not eligible to receive the scholarships/door prizes.
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Section 1111A(1) of the Code prohibits a public servant from receiving any thing of economic value for the performance of their public duties other than the compensation and benefits that they are entitled to receive from their governmental employer.
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Adopt proposed advisory opinion
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| Assigned Attorney: |
Brent Durham |
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