FAQs About Official and Outside Organizations

Q.  Is it permissible for a House office to co-host or co-sponsor an event with a private organization?

A. No. Co-sponsoring an event with an outside organization implicates House Rule XXIV, the rule prohibiting private subsidy of House business.  All staff involved in planning events should carefully review the House Ethics Manual, pp. 340-346.

Q.  I am interested in helping a charity raise funds.  Is this OK?

A. Subject to certain restrictions, it is generally permissible for House Members and staff to solicit funds on behalf of a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.  Among other restrictions, House Members and employees may not use House resources including staff time, House email, or official letterhead, and may not solicit contributions from federal lobbyists.  For complete information, see House Ethics Manual, pp. 347-349.