About This Series Welcome to Dear Ethics Liaison - where the University’s Ethics Liaison responds to employee questions about compliance with the State Code of Ethics and applicable University policies.All questions are anonymized. |
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The Question |
“I heard that some of the monetary limits within the gift rules in the State Code of Ethics change on October 1st. What are the changes, and how do I know whether I can accept something that is offered to me because of my UConn position?” |
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Quick Answer |
Effective October 1, 2026, there are increases in the dollar limits on certain gifts that state employees can accept from restricted donors.
Reminder: Restricted donors include registered lobbyists, those doing or seeking to do business with UConn, and DAS pre-qualified contractors.
Also effective October 1, 2026, there is an increase on the dollar limit for gifts exchanged to celebrate major life events. |
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Employees may accept "token items,” like a coffee mug or pen, valued at up to $20 per item (previously $10). A restricted donor can provide up to $100 of “token items” per calendar year (previously $50).
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Employees may accept up to $100 (previously $50) worth of food and beverages per calendar year per recipient at occasions where the restricted donor is present.
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Ceremonial Plaques and Awards |
Employees may accept a certificate, plaque or other ceremonial award from a restricted donor that costs up to $250 (previously $100). |
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A gift provided for the celebration of a major life event can now cost up to $1,500 (previously $1,000). “Major life events” are limited to the birth or adoption of a child, marriage, funeral, retirement from state service, or induction into religious adulthood. |
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The dollar amount is only part of the analysis. Who is offering the item and why it is being offered still matter. |
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Contact the Ethics Liaison |
Kimberly Fearney serves as the Ethics Liaison for UConn and UConn Health. The Ethics Liaison is responsible to provide guidance, facilitate the development of ethics policies, and provide annual education and training on the State Code of Ethics. |
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