News
October 13, 2025
N.H. ethics panel decides GoFundMe to help House staffer's tragic loss is permitted
The Legislative Ethics Committee decided that nearly $3,500 in donations raised by friends, colleagues and one lobbyist on a GoFundMe page to help an executive assistant to House Speaker Sherman Packard after a fire seriously damaged her home were exempt...
**N.H. ethics panel decides GoFundMe to help House staffer's tragic loss is permitted**
CONCORD, N.H. – A GoFundMe campaign established to aid a New Hampshire House staffer who suffered significant home damage in a recent fire has been given the green light by the Legislative Ethics Committee. The committee determined that the nearly $3,500 raised through the online fundraising platform is permissible and does not violate any ethics rules.
The GoFundMe page was created by friends and colleagues of the executive assistant to House Speaker Sherman Packard after a fire caused serious damage to her residence. Recognizing the immediate financial burden and potential hardship the staffer would face, they launched the campaign to help alleviate some of the costs associated with repairs, temporary housing, and replacing essential belongings.
The ethics panel reviewed the situation to ensure compliance with state regulations regarding gifts and potential conflicts of interest. Their examination focused on the source of the donations, which included contributions from fellow legislative staff, friends, and even one registered lobbyist. The committee ultimately concluded that the donations fell under an exemption, allowing the staffer to accept the funds without violating ethics guidelines.
The decision provides clarity on the acceptability of using crowdfunding platforms to support public servants facing unexpected personal crises. While the committee acknowledged the importance of maintaining ethical boundaries and preventing undue influence, they recognized the genuine need and charitable intent behind the GoFundMe campaign.
"This was a tragic situation for the staffer, and the outpouring of support from her colleagues and community is commendable," a member of the Ethics Committee stated. "Our review determined that the donations were offered out of genuine concern and compassion, and did not create any conflict of interest that would warrant prohibiting the acceptance of the funds."
The ruling offers reassurance to other state employees who might find themselves in similar circumstances, highlighting a pathway for receiving assistance during times of personal hardship while adhering to ethical standards. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and the role of ethical oversight in navigating complex situations within the legislative sphere. The staffer, who has understandably remained unnamed throughout this process, is reportedly grateful for the generosity and support received.
CONCORD, N.H. – A GoFundMe campaign established to aid a New Hampshire House staffer who suffered significant home damage in a recent fire has been given the green light by the Legislative Ethics Committee. The committee determined that the nearly $3,500 raised through the online fundraising platform is permissible and does not violate any ethics rules.
The GoFundMe page was created by friends and colleagues of the executive assistant to House Speaker Sherman Packard after a fire caused serious damage to her residence. Recognizing the immediate financial burden and potential hardship the staffer would face, they launched the campaign to help alleviate some of the costs associated with repairs, temporary housing, and replacing essential belongings.
The ethics panel reviewed the situation to ensure compliance with state regulations regarding gifts and potential conflicts of interest. Their examination focused on the source of the donations, which included contributions from fellow legislative staff, friends, and even one registered lobbyist. The committee ultimately concluded that the donations fell under an exemption, allowing the staffer to accept the funds without violating ethics guidelines.
The decision provides clarity on the acceptability of using crowdfunding platforms to support public servants facing unexpected personal crises. While the committee acknowledged the importance of maintaining ethical boundaries and preventing undue influence, they recognized the genuine need and charitable intent behind the GoFundMe campaign.
"This was a tragic situation for the staffer, and the outpouring of support from her colleagues and community is commendable," a member of the Ethics Committee stated. "Our review determined that the donations were offered out of genuine concern and compassion, and did not create any conflict of interest that would warrant prohibiting the acceptance of the funds."
The ruling offers reassurance to other state employees who might find themselves in similar circumstances, highlighting a pathway for receiving assistance during times of personal hardship while adhering to ethical standards. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and the role of ethical oversight in navigating complex situations within the legislative sphere. The staffer, who has understandably remained unnamed throughout this process, is reportedly grateful for the generosity and support received.
Category:
Politics