CEO 75-45 -- March 5, 1975

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

PROPRIETY OF STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRIBUTING "BUSINESS" CARD IN CORRESPONDENCE TO HIS CONSTITUENTS

To: Jerry G. Melvin, Representative, 5th District, Tallahassee

Prepared by: Gene L. "Hal" Johnson

SUMMARY:

The Code of Ethics, part III, Ch. 112, F. S., as amended by Ch. 74-177, Laws of Florida, does not prohibit a state representative from enclosing a card in correspondence with constituents. In this instance, Rep. Melvin's card bears the representative's phone numbers, photograph, political party, state district, and various consumer assistance groups' telephone numbers. Additional information as to whether such a card is subject to elections code regulations should be obtained from the Elections Division of the Department of State or from the Attorney General.

QUESTION:

May I enclose a business card printed at my own expense containing a picture of me; my name, public office, political party, state district, and telephone number; and various consumer assistance telephone numbers in correspondence to my constituents?

Your question is answered in the affirmative.

The Code of Ethics, part III, Ch. 112, F. S., as amended by Ch. 74-177, Laws of Florida, contains no provisions which would prohibit you from printing and using such a card in this manner. However, you may wish to obtain an opinion from the Elections Division of the Department of State or the Attorney General as to whether such a card is subject to elections code regulations.