COMPLIANCE CHATTER

Ethics Edition

UConn values civic and community engagement. For some of us, that might include activities like publicly supporting political candidates or parties, or even seeking political office. In the midst of election season, it is important for employees to review the University Guide to the State Code of Ethics to ensure compliance with expectations related to political activity of state employees.

UConn Employees and Political Activity

As outlined in the University Guide to the State Code of Ethics, employees are not prohibited from seeking political office as long as it is not done on State time or with State resources. However, any State employee who is elected to state political office may not be employed by two branches of state government simultaneously. Therefore, any employee who accepts an elective state office must resign or take a leave of absence from his/her position with the University. Be sure to consult the University Laws and By-Laws and inform your supervisor prior to participating in a political campaign.

In addition, UConn employees are prohibited from engaging in partisan political activities while on state time, and from using UConn resources, materials, or equipment for the purpose of influencing a political election of any sort.

Employees should refrain from posting on bulletin boards; seeking support for a political candidate, party, or donations for political campaigns; and wearing or displaying partisan political buttons or clothing while on state time or on state property. While employees cannot wear or display partisan political buttons, clothing, or other material in the workplace, it is permissible to place political messaging on a personal vehicle, even when it is parked on state property.

Contact the Ethics Liaison, Kimberly Fearney (Kim.Fearney@uconn.edu), for questions or guidance related to the State Code of Ethics.

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