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LWV League of Women Voters of California
Smart Voter
San Francisco County, CA November 7, 2000 Election
Proposition J
City Contractor Contributions
City of San Francisco
Ordinance, placed on the ballot by initiative petition

234,787 / 82.7% Yes votes ...... 49,274 / 17.3% No votes

See Also: Index of all Measures
Information shown below: Summary | Fiscal Impact | Arguments |

Shall the City ban officials from accepting gifts, payments, or campaign contributions from a person or group if the official previously approved granting the donor a contract or special benefit?

Summary:
This ordinance would strengthen already existing laws designed to ban gifts, employment offers, or campaign contributions from persons or groups doing business with the City of San Francisco.

Currently there are state and local laws which address the question of public officials accepting gifts, contributions, or other advantages from groups or individuals engaging in business with city government. Gifts may not exceed $300.00 per year and all gifts over $50 are to be reported.

Under Proposition J, City officials (elected or appointed) involved in approving contracts, lease franchises, land use variances, special tax benefits, or monetary payments worth over $50,000 with any persons or groups, would be banned from accepting gifts, employment offers, or campaign contributions. The ban would last for two years after the official leaves office or six years after the City business is completed, whichever comes first.

Proposition J would also require City officials to determine whether any benefits have been received by City workers, so that the benefit may be returned within ten days of its receipt. In addition, any citizen could bring a civil suit against a public official whom the citizen thinks has violated this law. Penalties for officials violating this proposition would include misdemeanor criminal charges, monetary penalties, and a possible ban from holding public office in the future.

Fiscal Impact from the Controller:
Should the proposed ordinance be adopted, in my opinion, it would have a minor effect on the cost of government.

Arguments Submitted

Summary of Arguments FOR Proposition J:
We need stronger laws to discourage corruption and to keep the decisions of public officials from being influenced by possible personal gain.

This proposition would discourage special interests from attempting to gain unfair advantages when dealing with City officials.

This proposition would strengthen the democratic process.

Summary of Arguments AGAINST Proposition J:
City officials returning to the private sector shouldn’t be limited in their job search. The officials should be free to seek employment with any company they choose.

Individuals should be free to give monetary support to any political candidate. This proposition could violate that right.

Provisions in this proposition could lead to frivolous or politically motivated lawsuits.

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Created: January 25, 2001 02:34
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