Raised Bill No. 1227 seeks to amend the State Codes of Ethics in Connecticut by increasing various monetary thresholds related to the definition of "gift" and the conditions under which public officials and state employees can enter into contracts with the state. Key changes include raising the threshold for a ceremonial award from one dollar to two hundred fifty dollars, increasing the limit for food or beverage provided at receptions from fifty dollars to one hundred dollars per person, and allowing gifts for major life events to be valued at up to one thousand five hundred dollars. Additionally, the bill raises the aggregate value of gifts from ten dollars to twenty dollars, with an overall annual limit of one hundred dollars. It also modifies the contract threshold for public officials and state employees, increasing the minimum value for contracts with the state from one dollar to two hundred fifty dollars, while exempting certain contracts related to employment or educational collaborations.

The bill further introduces amendments to the reporting requirements for gifts and lobbying activities, including increasing the threshold for reporting gifts from ten to twenty dollars and raising the reporting limit for expenditures and solicitations from fifty to one hundred dollars. It clarifies definitions related to "expenditure" and "gift," specifying exceptions for political contributions and family gifts. Additionally, the bill mandates that any contract made in violation of a public official's authority is voidable if challenged within 180 days, and it requires lobbyists to file detailed financial reports on expenditures and contracts, with an emphasis on transparency regarding gifts to public officials. Overall, these changes aim to enhance ethical standards and accountability in the interactions between public officials and those doing business with the state.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 1-84, 1-96, 1-96e