| (a) Except as provided by subsection (b) of this section,
a benefit, for the purposes of this chapter, is anything that is reasonably
regarded as financial gain or financial advantage, including a benefit
to another person in whose welfare the beneficiary has a direct and
substantial interest, regardless of whether the donor is reimbursed.
Examples are cash, loans, meals, lodging, services, tickets, door
prizes, free entry to entertainment or sporting events, transportation,
hunting or fishing trips, or discounts on goods or services.
(b) The following are not benefits for the purposes
of this chapter:
(1) a token item, other than cash, a check, stock,
bond, or similar item, that is distributed generally as a normal means
of advertising and that does not exceed an estimated value of $25;
(2) an honorarium in the form of a meal served at
an official, department-related event such as a conference, workshop,
seminar, or symposium; or
(3) reimbursement for food, travel, or lodging to
an event described by paragraph (2) of this subsection in an amount
allowable under department policy if the recipient were to seek reimbursement
from the department, or a greater amount if preapproved by the executive
director.
|
| Source Note: The provisions of this §10.5 adopted to be effective January 6, 2011, 35 TexReg 11951; amended to be effective September 14, 2016, 41 TexReg 7135; amended to be effective September 19, 2018, 43 TexReg 6000 |
