Blunt lays out lobbyist gift ban, conduct policy

The policy, part of Blunt’s employee manual, requires employees to reimburse lobbyists for meals, tickets, trips or any other items of value.

The conduct policy also sets forth guidelines that prohibit employees from engaging in business with state government or in outside employment that conflicts with the performance of duties in the office.

This is Missouri’s first lobbyist ban, according to a news release from Blunt’s office.

“The professional conduct required by this code and lobbyist gift ban will help strengthen the confidence that must exist between the people and their government, and sends a clear signal that the business of Missourians is the highest priority of this office,” Blunt said in the release.

The code of conduct also states that state equipment should only be used for state business and prohibits “employees from using their public positions in a manner designed to create personal gain,” according to the release. Employees are prohibited from attempting to influence agency decisions related to prospective employers.