A local Democratic group in Kitsap County has filed an ethics complaint against Washington state Rep. Tarra Simmons. The complaint, filed on January 12, questions a donation Simmons made to an out-of-state nonprofit with personal ties. It’s one of three pending ethics complaints against her. The complaints follow increased scrutiny after Simmons backed state funding cuts to legal aid groups, including her former employer. State law restricts the use of surplus campaign funds to ensure they aren't for personal benefit. Simmons denies wrongdoing and says her expenses comply with all rules. The Public Disclosure Commission will assess the complaint within 90 days.
