Opinion 95-36

March 9, 1995

NOTE: MODIFIED BY OPINION 06-162

Digest:         Surplus or unexpended campaign funds may be used to purchase carpeting for the judge’s chambers on condition that it will become and remain the property of the state.

Rules:          Opinions 95-56 (Vol. XI); 93-04 (Vol. X); 92-104 (Vol. X); 91-87 (Vol. VIII).

Opinion:

         A newly-elected judge inquires whether surplus campaign funds may be used to purchase new carpeting for the judge’s chambers, to replace the present old, worn and torn carpeting, such new carpeting to become and remain the property of the state court system.

         In prior Opinion 93-56 (Vol. XI), 93-04 (Vol. X), 92-104 (Vol. X) and 91-87 (Vol. VIII), the Committee held that unexpended campaign funds may be used to purchase various types of office equipment and furniture for use in the judge’s chambers or courtroom, provided that upon purchase the items become the property of the State court system, even though installed in the chambers of the particular judge. Carpeting would fall within the category of furnishings that may be purchased on the foregoing conditions.