USDOJ: JMD: Departmental Ethics Office: Gifts of Entertainment

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Justice Management Division
Serving Justice - Securing Results

Conferences and Other Events

When an employee is participating in his official capacity as a speaker or panel member at a conference or other event, he may accept an offer of free attendance, including a meal or refreshments, on the day of his presentation. The employee's participation in the event on that day is viewed as a customary and necessary part of his duties and is not considered a gift to him or the Department.

5 C.F.R. § 2635.204(g)(1) (see Subpart B - Gifts from Outside Sources, Exceptions)

Widely Attended Gatherings

When it is determined that an employee's attendance at all or an appropriate part of an event is in the interest of the Department because it will further agency programs and operations, an employee may accept an unsolicited gift of free attendance from the sponsor of the event if the event is found to be a widely attended gathering. A gathering is widely attended if a large number of people with mutual interests are expected to attend and the event is open to members from throughout a given industry or profession.

A determination that an employee’s attendance at a widely attended gathering is in the interest of the Department shall be made orally or in writing. If the person extending the invitation has interests that may be substantially affected by the performance or nonperformance of an employee's official duties, or is an association or organization the majority of whose members have such interests, the determination must be made in writing. Here is a sample widely attended gathering determination.

If anyone other than the sponsor of the event offers to pay for an employee's attendance at a widely attended gathering, at least 100 persons must be expected to attend and the cost cannot exceed $335 for the employee and his guest.

5 C.F.R. § 2635.204(g)(2) (see Subpart B - Gifts from Outside Sources, Exceptions)

Social Invitations from Persons Other than Prohibited Sources

An employee may accept food, refreshments and entertainment, not including travel and lodging, at a social event attended by several people where the invitation is from someone who is not a prohibited source and no fee is charged to anyone in attendance.

5 C.F.R. § 2635.204(h) (see Subpart B - Gifts from Outside Sources, Exceptions)

Last Updated:
September 11, 2008


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