External Affairs :: Policies & Procedures

In addition to the exception for gifts paid by a state entity, other categories of gifts to Members of Congress or staff that are permitted under the House and Senate rules include:

• Items of little intrinsic or "nominal" value, generally worth $10 or less. Greeting cards, baseball caps and T-shirts have been specifically defined as "nominal" without regard to the actual cost.
• Free attendance at a "widely attended event". A widely attended event includes conferences, dinners, receptions, and other similar events where (1) the event is open to individuals from throughout a given industry or profession, and there is an expectation that at least 25 persons will attend, other than Members of Congress and staff; (2) the invitation is from the sponsor of the event; and (3) the Member or staff reasonably determines that attendance at the event is related to his or her official duties.
• Food and refreshments of a nominal value that are not offered as part of a meal or offered at events (other than a "widely attended event").  For example, an organization may offer coffee and bagels or appetizers and beverages as part of a policy briefing as long as the refreshments are not lavish, and not part of a meal function.
• Items of a commemorative nature, such as a plaque or trophy, if they are intended as part of a presentation to a Member or staff.
• Books or other materials of an informational nature.
• Gifts (including meals or personal hospitality in one's home) provided on the basis of a personal relationship or friendship, where there is a history of reciprocal gift giving or hospitality. A person giving a gift based on the personal friendship exception should not receive reimbursement for the cost of the gift or meal from his/her employer or should not take a business tax deduction for the cost incurred.