"Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's recent agreement with the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) to pay $42,000 to cover the costs of gifts he received, but had not reported, highlights the need for that agency to clarify its regulations. The taxpayers expect the mayor to be a strong presence in this city and even nationally. To do so, he will inevitably be attending events in which he has a 'ceremonial role.' Technically, if he is performing such a role, the reporting act requirements are not triggered. The big problem is that there is no clear definition as to when an official act is a 'ceremonial role.'"
FPPC fine for good-faith attempts to comply with the law
Loyola Law School | Faculty Blog:
