Federal Friday
-
Department of Treasury: Treasury, IRS Move to End Tax-Exempt Status for Discriminatory Practices in Private Schools
Federal Funding Update
On September 1, the House of Representatives considered the Senate Amendments to H.R. 6500 – The Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027. The bill, which was previously agreed to in the Senate, passed the House via a vote of 370-48.
The bill was signed into law on September 2, 2026, and provides funding for the federal government and a delay of the Uniform Guidance Rule through December 11, 2026.
Political Activity Guidance Reminder
As a reminder, as uncertainty continues around the federal landscape, Universities of Wisconsin employees should be mindful of political activity and public advocacy guidelines.
Activities such as sharing a petition or contacting a legislator for political purposes using your university email address or state resources to engage in political campaign activities at any time or engaging in political activities during work time are prohibited.
In your capacity as private citizens, on non-work time, and without use of university resources (including the use of university email addresses) employees may circulate or sign a petition or letter of support advocating for public policy or a political candidate. However, if using your name and official title, it should be made clear that an individual’s endorsement indicates neither support nor endorsement by the university of a particular policy position or candidate, and that you are acting solely in your role as a private citizen.
For more information, you can read the Guidance on Political Activities Frequently Asked Questions document. Importantly, these FAQs should be treated as general guidelines and not legal advice.
Please direct specific questions regarding political campaign issues to the Office of General Counsel or your university’s Office of Legal Affairs.