Subject to additional definitions contained in subsequent provisions of this article which are applicable to specific chapters or other provisions of this article, the following words and phrases, when used in this article shall have, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the meanings given to them in this section:

"Administrative proceeding." Any proceeding other than a judicial proceeding, the outcome of which is required to be based on a record or documentation prescribed by law, or in which law or regulation is particularized in application to individuals.

"Benefit." Gain or advantage, or anything regarded by the beneficiary as gain or advantage, including benefit to any other person or entity in whose welfare he is interested, but not an advantage promised generally to a group or class of voters as a consequence of public measures which a candidate engages to support or oppose.

"Government." Includes any branch, subdivision or agency of:

(1) the Commonwealth government;

(2) any political subdivision; or

(3) any municipal or local authority.

"Harm." Loss, disadvantage or injury, or anything so regarded by the person affected, including loss, disadvantage or injury to any other person or entity in whose welfare he is interested.

"Licensing board." Any of the following:

(1) A board or commission:

(i) which is empowered to license, certify or register individuals as members of an occupation or profession; and

(ii) of which the Commissioner of Professional and Occupational Affairs is a member.

(2) The State Board of Certified Real Estate Appraisers.

(3) The Navigation Commission for the Delaware River and its navigable tributaries.

"Official proceeding." A proceeding heard or which may be heard before any legislative, judicial, administrative or other government agency or official authorized to take evidence under oath, including any referee, hearing examiner, commissioner, notary or other person taking testimony or deposition in connection with any such proceeding.

"Party official." A person who holds an elective or appointive post in a political party in the United States by virtue of which he directs or conducts, or participates in directing or conducting party affairs at any level of responsibility.

"Pecuniary benefit." Benefit in the form of money, property, commercial interests or anything else the primary significance of which is economic gain.

"Professional or occupational license." An authorization by a licensing board to practice a profession or occupation.

(1) The term includes:

(i) an authorization that is suspended, retired, inactive or expired; and

(ii) a temporary practice permit, license, certification or registration.

(2) The term does not include an authorization that has been revoked or voluntarily surrendered.

"Public servant." Any officer or employee of government, including members of the General Assembly and judges, and any person participating as juror, advisor, consultant or otherwise, in performing a governmental function; but the term does not include witnesses.

(Mar. 22, 2010, P.L.144, No.12, eff. 60 days)

2010 Amendment. Act 12 added the defs. of "licensing board" and "professional or occupational license."

Cross References. Section 4501 is referred to in section 4958 of this title.