University of California officers and employees must comply with the provisions of State and Federal law governing the acceptance of gifts and gratuities. Certain gifts to University employees are prohibited by law. All University officers and employees are expected to act with integrity and good judgment and to recognize that the acceptance of personal gifts from those doing business or seeking to do business with the University, even when lawful, may give rise to legitimate concerns about favoritism depending on the circumstances.
Designated officials are prohibited from accepting gifts totaling more than $590 from a single source in a calendar year, if the gift must be reported on their Statement of Economic Interests Form 700, in accordance with their disclosure categories. Note that there are several exemptions on what is defined as a gift.
Consequences of receiving gifts from a single source which total $590 or more in any 12-month period:
- Violation of the law
- Office of the President will have to notify the Fair Political Practices Commission in Sacramento which may levy a fine
Remedies to accepting a prohibited gift: within 30 days
- Return gift to donor
- Turn the gift over unused to the University
- Deliver the gift to a charitable organization
If a University officer or employee has any question regarding the propriety of a gift, disclosure of the gift or proposed gift, they should ask the Conflict of Interest Coordinator (Conflicts@berkeley.edu) for a determination of the proper course of action.
For further information on acceptance of gifts and gratuities see: Guide to Gifts.