(a) Except as provided by subsection (b) of this section, a benefit, for the purposes of this chapter, is anything that is reasonably regarded as financial gain or financial advantage, including a benefit to another person in whose welfare the beneficiary has a direct and substantial interest, regardless of whether the donor is reimbursed. Examples are cash, loans, meals, lodging, services, tickets, door prizes, free entry to entertainment or sporting events, transportation, hunting or fishing trips, or discounts on goods or services.
(b) The following are not benefits for the purposes of this chapter:
  (1) a token item, other than cash, a check, stock, bond, or similar item, that is distributed generally as a normal means of advertising and that does not exceed an estimated value of $25;
  (2) an honorarium in the form of a meal served at an official, department-related event such as a conference, workshop, seminar, or symposium; or
  (3) reimbursement for food, travel, or lodging to an event described by paragraph (2) of this subsection in an amount allowable under department policy if the recipient were to seek reimbursement from the department, or a greater amount if preapproved by the executive director.

Source Note: The provisions of this §10.5 adopted to be effective January 6, 2011, 35 TexReg 11951; amended to be effective September 14, 2016, 41 TexReg 7135; amended to be effective September 19, 2018, 43 TexReg 6000