Gov.-elect Gary Locke can keep dialing for dollars to help pay the costs associated with his transition into office, the state’s campaign watchdog agency said Tuesday.

Locke asked the Public Disclosure Commission last week to decide whether surplus campaign funds can legally be used for transition expenses since the Legislature didn’t set aside any money for that and Gov. Mike Lowry has offered only $120,000 from state reserves.

The governor-elect, who raised nearly $2.1 million to finance his successful campaign, also said he’ll have to continue fund raising to help pay the salaries of the people helping him. Locke has estimated he’ll need another $100,000.

The Public Disclosure Commission unanimously agreed Tuesday that Locke’s request would fall within the limits of campaign laws. Campaigns are legally able to solicit through the end of this month to pay debts.