A state ethics panel has ordered Democratic state Rep. Tarra Simmons to pay roughly $52,000 in penalties and fees for multiple violations of Washington ethics laws.
Three weeks ago, the Legislative Ethics Board ruled the Bremerton lawmaker committed three violations of conflict of interest and special privilege laws. The board levied the maximum $5,000 penalty for each.
Its final order, dated Aug. 28 and released Wednesday, tacked on $37,457.98 to cover costs of staff, including state attorneys, in the case. Simmons has 90 days to pay the full amount…