{"id":74,"date":"2014-10-29T10:48:34","date_gmt":"2014-10-29T15:48:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/?page_id=74"},"modified":"2024-02-13T15:10:38","modified_gmt":"2024-02-13T21:10:38","slug":"guidance-on-political-campaign-activities-at-university-of-wisconsin-system-institutions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/guidance-on-political-campaign-activities-at-university-of-wisconsin-system-institutions\/","title":{"rendered":"Guidance on Political Campaign Activities"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"cfct-build-74\" class=\"cfct-build grid\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-md-12 cfct-block\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"cfct-module uwsa-rich-text\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"cfct-mod-content copy\"><p>The Universities of Wisconsin are committed to the free and open discussion of ideas and encourages active civic engagement including participation in the electoral process.\u00a0 As a state entity, the Universities of Wisconsin do not engage in political campaign activity and state time or resources may not be used for that purpose either. But, on their own time and with their own resources, employees and students may become involved with a political campaign.\u00a0 However, it\u2019s important for employees and students interested in becoming involved with a political campaign to understand their responsibilities as state employees or members of a student organization before becoming involved. The higher your position, the more likely you are subject to greater regulation such as lobbying requirements.<\/p>\n<p>Below are frequently asked questions (\u201cFAQs\u201d).\u00a0 The FAQs should be treated as general guidelines not legal advice which is dependent on the specific details of your situation.\u00a0 Please direct specific questions regarding political campaign issues to your university&#8217;s Office of Legal Affairs or the Universities of Wisconsin Office of General Counsel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"cfct-module uwsa-tabs-accordions\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"cfct-mod-title \">FAQs for UW Employees<\/h3>    <div class=\"bs-accordion \">\n            <div class=\"accordion-all-buttons\">\n          <a href=\"#\" class=\"accordions-showall btn btn-primary btn-xs\" role=\"button\" data-panel=\"ntu9p\"><span class=\"uw-resize-full\">Open All<\/span><\/a>\n        <\/div>\n        <div id=\"ntu9p\" class=\"panel-group\">\n        \n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_what-is-political-campaign-activity\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_what-is-political-campaign-activity\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#what-is-political-campaign-activity\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"what-is-political-campaign-activity\">What is political campaign activity?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"what-is-political-campaign-activity\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_what-is-political-campaign-activity\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Political campaign activity can include activities such as:<\/p><ul><li>solicitation of campaign contributions<\/li><li>advocating, volunteering, or working for candidates, political parties, or political action committees<\/li><li>advocating a particular position on a referendum.<\/li><\/ul><p>Further, there should be awareness that comments regarding the specific actions, positions, or records of a particular candidate may be perceived as support or endorsement by the institution of a particular candidate or political party.<\/p><p>There are other \u201cpolitical\u201d activities that might not fall within the scope of \u201cpolitical campaign\u201d activities described above. For example, advocating for governmental action or legislative change at a local, state or federal level may be political although not related to a political campaign. While this guidance does not cover those activities in detail, because of restrictions on state lobbying and personal use of state resources, individual employees should not use state work time or state resources to engage in political activities unless expressly designated with this responsibility on behalf of the employing institution.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_as-a-university-employee-are-there-restrictions-on-my-political-campaign-activities\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-are-there-restrictions-on-my-political-campaign-activities\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#as-a-university-employee-are-there-restrictions-on-my-political-campaign-activities\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"as-a-university-employee-are-there-restrictions-on-my-political-campaign-activities\">As a university employee, are there restrictions on my political campaign activities?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"as-a-university-employee-are-there-restrictions-on-my-political-campaign-activities\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-are-there-restrictions-on-my-political-campaign-activities\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes. Your political campaign activities are restricted by Regent policy and state law in three significant ways.\u00a0 You may not:<\/p><ul><li>engage in political campaign activities during your work time<\/li><li>use state resources to engage in political campaign activities at any time<\/li><li>solicit contributions or services for a political purpose from other university employees while they are engaged in their official duties. <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/11\/xii\/1207\">Wis. Stat. \u00a7 11.1207<\/a>.<\/li><\/ul><p>Some examples of state resources include:<\/p><ul><li>institutional letterhead and logos<\/li><li>office space and other facilities<\/li><li>office supplies<\/li><li>photocopiers<\/li><li>telephones or fax machines<\/li><li>electronic resources including email, websites, on-line discussion boards, cell phones, or other similar resources<\/li><\/ul><p>As a private citizen, you are free to engage in political activities on your own time and with your own resources.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_as-a-university-employee-may-i-run-for-state-office\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-may-i-run-for-state-office\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#as-a-university-employee-may-i-run-for-state-office\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"as-a-university-employee-may-i-run-for-state-office\">As a university employee, may I run for state office?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"as-a-university-employee-may-i-run-for-state-office\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-may-i-run-for-state-office\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes, but this may affect your employment. Wisconsin law restricts elected state officials from holding any other paid positions with a state agency during their term. <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/16\/iii\/417\">Wis. Stat. \u00a7 16.417(2)(b)<\/a>. There are narrow exceptions for unpaid positions. The Universities of Wisconsin Administration and its constituent colleges, universities, and extension service is a \u201cstate agency,\u201d and therefore an individual elected to state office may not hold a paid position in the Universities of Wisconsin.<\/p><p>While the law does not prevent university employees from running for office, it does prevent you from continuing to work at the university if elected. You may not hold a paid position at the university while serving in an elective state office. Check your campus policies regarding leaves of absence to engage in public service.<\/p><p>If you wish to be a candidate in a primary election, you should first consult with both your department chair and your dean or director to determine whether your campaign activity will impair the performance of your university duties. If it is determined the activity will produce some adverse effect, then a reduced-time appointment or a leave of absence would be appropriate for the duration of the campaign.<\/p><p>If you are a candidate in a general election, upon consultation with the appropriate department chair and dean or director, a reduced-time appointment or leave of absence should be arranged.<\/p><p>You may also run for local office. However, your university appointment may be subject to change, depending on the particular office you are seeking.<\/p><p>Serving as an elected official for activities that occur outside the workday (e.g., school boards, city councils, county boards, or commissions) would not normally require a reduced appointment or leave of absence but may require the use of vacation\/personal holiday time to cover any activities during the workday.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_as-a-university-employee-may-i-host-a-political-fundraiser-off-campus-at-my-home-for-example\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-may-i-host-a-political-fundraiser-off-campus-at-my-home-for-example\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#as-a-university-employee-may-i-host-a-political-fundraiser-off-campus-at-my-home-for-example\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"as-a-university-employee-may-i-host-a-political-fundraiser-off-campus-at-my-home-for-example\">As a university employee, may I host a political fundraiser off-campus (at my home, for example)?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"as-a-university-employee-may-i-host-a-political-fundraiser-off-campus-at-my-home-for-example\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-may-i-host-a-political-fundraiser-off-campus-at-my-home-for-example\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes. This is permissible if you do so on your own time and do not use state resources in connection with this event. In addition, you may not promote the fundraiser or engage in fundraising activities on state time, or in state office buildings. See <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/11\/xii\/1207\/\">Wis. Stat. \u00a7 11.1207<\/a>.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_as-a-university-employee-may-i-use-a-university-conference-facility-or-meeting-room-for-political-campaign-activities\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-may-i-use-a-university-conference-facility-or-meeting-room-for-political-campaign-activities\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#as-a-university-employee-may-i-use-a-university-conference-facility-or-meeting-room-for-political-campaign-activities\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"as-a-university-employee-may-i-use-a-university-conference-facility-or-meeting-room-for-political-campaign-activities\">As a university employee, may I use a university conference facility or meeting room for political campaign activities?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"as-a-university-employee-may-i-use-a-university-conference-facility-or-meeting-room-for-political-campaign-activities\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-may-i-use-a-university-conference-facility-or-meeting-room-for-political-campaign-activities\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>No. You may not use your university position to secure an on-campus conference or meeting room for the purpose of political campaign activities. However, an organization you are affiliated with may rent campus facilities consistent with the rules that apply to facilities rented by any other private organization. Note that state law strictly prohibits the use of state facilities for political fundraising. See <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/11\/xii\/1207\/3\">Wis. Stat.\u00a7 11.1207(3)<\/a>; See also the first FAQ for UW Students and Recognized Groups.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_as-a-university-employee-may-i-make-contributions-to-a-political-campaign\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-may-i-make-contributions-to-a-political-campaign\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#as-a-university-employee-may-i-make-contributions-to-a-political-campaign\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"as-a-university-employee-may-i-make-contributions-to-a-political-campaign\">As a university employee, may I make contributions to a political campaign?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"as-a-university-employee-may-i-make-contributions-to-a-political-campaign\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_as-a-university-employee-may-i-make-contributions-to-a-political-campaign\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes, but only outside of work hours and university facilities. All Universities of Wisconsin employees, including legislative liaisons and other employees who attempt to influence legislation, may contribute to and participate in political campaigns at any time during the election cycle. Pursuant to state campaign finance laws, however, campaign contributions cannot be solicited or collected on state time or in state office buildings. See <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/11\/xii\/1207\/\">Wis. Stat.\u00a7 11.1207<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/code\/admin_code\/uws\/21\/\">Wis. Admin. Code \u00a7 UWS 21<\/a>.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_may-i-permit-an-organization-to-list-my-name-and-employment-title-as-a-supporter-in-its-political-campaign-literature-for-example-in-a-letter-to-a-newspaper-a-brochure-or-a-fundraiser-invita\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_may-i-permit-an-organization-to-list-my-name-and-employment-title-as-a-supporter-in-its-political-campaign-literature-for-example-in-a-letter-to-a-newspaper-a-brochure-or-a-fundraiser-invita\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#may-i-permit-an-organization-to-list-my-name-and-employment-title-as-a-supporter-in-its-political-campaign-literature-for-example-in-a-letter-to-a-newspaper-a-brochure-or-a-fundraiser-invita\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"may-i-permit-an-organization-to-list-my-name-and-employment-title-as-a-supporter-in-its-political-campaign-literature-for-example-in-a-letter-to-a-newspaper-a-brochure-or-a-fundraiser-invita\">May I permit an organization to list my name and employment title as a supporter in its political campaign literature\u2014for example, in a letter to a newspaper, a brochure or a fundraiser invitation?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"may-i-permit-an-organization-to-list-my-name-and-employment-title-as-a-supporter-in-its-political-campaign-literature-for-example-in-a-letter-to-a-newspaper-a-brochure-or-a-fundraiser-invita\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_may-i-permit-an-organization-to-list-my-name-and-employment-title-as-a-supporter-in-its-political-campaign-literature-for-example-in-a-letter-to-a-newspaper-a-brochure-or-a-fundraiser-invita\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes. Care should be taken, however, about using your official title to promote one candidate over another. Generally speaking, you should seek to clarify that the use of your name indicates neither support nor endorsement by the university of a particular candidate and that you are acting solely in your role as a private citizen.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_may-i-support-a-candidate-or-referendum-position-by-wearing-political-identification-or-buttons-on-campus-or-when-working-remotely-may-i-demonstrate-my-support-for-a-candidate-or-referendum-position\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_may-i-support-a-candidate-or-referendum-position-by-wearing-political-identification-or-buttons-on-campus-or-when-working-remotely-may-i-demonstrate-my-support-for-a-candidate-or-referendum-position\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#may-i-support-a-candidate-or-referendum-position-by-wearing-political-identification-or-buttons-on-campus-or-when-working-remotely-may-i-demonstrate-my-support-for-a-candidate-or-referendum-position\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"may-i-support-a-candidate-or-referendum-position-by-wearing-political-identification-or-buttons-on-campus-or-when-working-remotely-may-i-demonstrate-my-support-for-a-candidate-or-referendum-position\">May I support a candidate or referendum position by wearing political identification or buttons on campus or when working remotely? May I demonstrate my support for a candidate or referendum position in my office or classroom or when I work from a remote location by displaying stickers, slogans, or signs in those places?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"may-i-support-a-candidate-or-referendum-position-by-wearing-political-identification-or-buttons-on-campus-or-when-working-remotely-may-i-demonstrate-my-support-for-a-candidate-or-referendum-position\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_may-i-support-a-candidate-or-referendum-position-by-wearing-political-identification-or-buttons-on-campus-or-when-working-remotely-may-i-demonstrate-my-support-for-a-candidate-or-referendum-position\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>It is a violation of state law for university employees to engage in political campaign activities while at work. Consistent with this principle, the State Office of Employment Relations has previously advised that state employees are prohibited from \u201cthe wearing of a political identification while on duty where it could impair the effectiveness of the state agency operation.\u201d See <a href=\"https:\/\/dpm.wi.gov\/Bulletins\/DPM-0433-MRS.pdf\">DPM-0433-MRS State Employee Political Activity (Classified Civil Service)<\/a>. Although the university currently operates under its own personnel system rather than OSER, we still believe that university employees should carefully consider the impact of wearing such political identifications while on duty.<\/p><p>The same goes for displaying partisan political signs that advocate a candidate, political party, or referendum outcome in a current election in the workplace regardless of whether in a University Office or when working remotely. <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/code\/admin_code\/uws\/18\/08\/9\">Wisconsin Administrative Code UWS section 18.08(9)<\/a>, provides that no person may erect, post or attach any signs, posters, pictures or any similar item in or on a university building, except as authorized under institutional policies. Employees in remote work settings should ensure that such political signs are not visible in work-related videoconferencing or other virtual meeting platforms. See also guidance on the posting of political signs in residence hall rooms in the FAQs for UW Students and Recognized Student Groups.<\/p><p>The display of bumper stickers on privately-owned vehicles parked in university parking facilities, however, does not raise concerns about improper or illegal political campaign activities.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"cfct-module uwsa-tabs-accordions\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"cfct-mod-title \">FAQs for UW Students and Recognized Student Groups<\/h3>    <div class=\"bs-accordion \">\n            <div class=\"accordion-all-buttons\">\n          <a href=\"#\" class=\"accordions-showall btn btn-primary btn-xs\" role=\"button\" data-panel=\"on3qs\"><span class=\"uw-resize-full\">Open All<\/span><\/a>\n        <\/div>\n        <div id=\"on3qs\" class=\"panel-group\">\n        \n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_as-a-university-student-or-university-recognized-student-group-may-i-organize-a-political-event-to-be-hosted-on-my-campus\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_as-a-university-student-or-university-recognized-student-group-may-i-organize-a-political-event-to-be-hosted-on-my-campus\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#as-a-university-student-or-university-recognized-student-group-may-i-organize-a-political-event-to-be-hosted-on-my-campus\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"as-a-university-student-or-university-recognized-student-group-may-i-organize-a-political-event-to-be-hosted-on-my-campus\">As a university student or university-recognized student group, may I organize a political event to be hosted on my campus?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"as-a-university-student-or-university-recognized-student-group-may-i-organize-a-political-event-to-be-hosted-on-my-campus\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_as-a-university-student-or-university-recognized-student-group-may-i-organize-a-political-event-to-be-hosted-on-my-campus\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes. Political events may be sponsored by either recognized or independent student organizations under certain circumstances. In fact, institutions and student groups are particularly encouraged to arrange non-partisan events such as campus tours for legislators and candidates, as well as to sponsor forums in which political figures or candidates may debate one another.<\/p><p>Student groups wishing to organize such events should contact the appropriate facilities administrator to ensure compliance with UW System policies on use of university facilities, <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/code\/admin_code\/uws\/21\/03\">Wis. Admin. Code UWS \u00a7 21.03<\/a>, and applicable institutional policies.<\/p><p>Please note state law strictly prohibits the use of state-owned buildings for political fundraising. See <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/11\/xii\/1207\/\">Wis. Stat. \u00a7 11.1207<\/a>. In addition, student organizations that have federal tax-exempt status may be subject to additional restrictions on political activity. See IRS Publication \u201cElection Year Issues\u201d (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-tege\/eotopici02.pdf\">http:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-tege\/eotopici02.pdf<\/a>).<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_can-student-groups-utilize-segregated-fees-or-university-resources-to-contribute-to-a-political-campaign\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_can-student-groups-utilize-segregated-fees-or-university-resources-to-contribute-to-a-political-campaign\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#can-student-groups-utilize-segregated-fees-or-university-resources-to-contribute-to-a-political-campaign\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"can-student-groups-utilize-segregated-fees-or-university-resources-to-contribute-to-a-political-campaign\">Can student groups utilize segregated fees or university resources to contribute to a political campaign?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"can-student-groups-utilize-segregated-fees-or-university-resources-to-contribute-to-a-political-campaign\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_can-student-groups-utilize-segregated-fees-or-university-resources-to-contribute-to-a-political-campaign\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>No. In accordance with Universities of Wisconsin Financial and Administrative Policy Segregated University Fees (UWS 820) and consistent with campaign finance law, student groups may not use segregated fees to make direct gifts, contributions, or donations of any kind. See <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/uw-policies\/uw-system-administrative-policies\/segregated-university-fees\/\">UW System Administrative Policy 820 I.B(3)(e)<\/a>.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_may-segregated-fees-be-used-to-fund-the-printing-of-posters-political-advertisements-or-t-shirts-indicating-our-groups-support-of-a-candidate-or-political-party\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_may-segregated-fees-be-used-to-fund-the-printing-of-posters-political-advertisements-or-t-shirts-indicating-our-groups-support-of-a-candidate-or-political-party\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#may-segregated-fees-be-used-to-fund-the-printing-of-posters-political-advertisements-or-t-shirts-indicating-our-groups-support-of-a-candidate-or-political-party\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"may-segregated-fees-be-used-to-fund-the-printing-of-posters-political-advertisements-or-t-shirts-indicating-our-groups-support-of-a-candidate-or-political-party\">May segregated fees be used to fund the printing of posters, political advertisements, or t-shirts indicating our group\u2019s support of a candidate or political party?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"may-segregated-fees-be-used-to-fund-the-printing-of-posters-political-advertisements-or-t-shirts-indicating-our-groups-support-of-a-candidate-or-political-party\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_may-segregated-fees-be-used-to-fund-the-printing-of-posters-political-advertisements-or-t-shirts-indicating-our-groups-support-of-a-candidate-or-political-party\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>As discussed above, student organizations may not use segregated fees in a manner which would constitute making a direct gift, contribution, or donation of any kind. Accordingly, if the funding of these materials constitutes a gift, contribution or donation to a candidate or party, it would not be permitted. See\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/uw-policies\/uw-system-administrative-policies\/segregated-university-fees\/\">UW System Administrative Policy 820 I.B(3)(e)<\/a>. Student organizations may, however, use segregated fees to support their own expressive activities and views on public policy issues and other interests.<\/p><p>Questions about appropriate uses of segregated fees should be referred to campus student affairs officers and\/or legal counsel.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_can-student-organizations-urge-students-to-vote-what-about-voting-for-a-particular-party-or-for-a-particular-candidate\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_can-student-organizations-urge-students-to-vote-what-about-voting-for-a-particular-party-or-for-a-particular-candidate\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#can-student-organizations-urge-students-to-vote-what-about-voting-for-a-particular-party-or-for-a-particular-candidate\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"can-student-organizations-urge-students-to-vote-what-about-voting-for-a-particular-party-or-for-a-particular-candidate\">Can student organizations urge students to vote? What about voting for a particular party or for a particular candidate?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"can-student-organizations-urge-students-to-vote-what-about-voting-for-a-particular-party-or-for-a-particular-candidate\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_can-student-organizations-urge-students-to-vote-what-about-voting-for-a-particular-party-or-for-a-particular-candidate\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes. Student organizations are encouraged to help educate and inform students about upcoming elections, including urging students to exercise their right to vote. Student organizations are also free to express their views about the parties and candidates, and to urge voting for particular parties or candidates, and\u2013as noted above\u2013to sponsor events for candidates so long as they comply with rules governing the use of university facilities.<\/p><p>Please note state law strictly prohibits the use of state-owned buildings for political fundraising. See <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/11\/xii\/1207\">Wis. Stat. \u00a7 11.1207<\/a>. In addition, student organizations that have federal tax-exempt status may be subject to additional restrictions on political activity. See IRS Publication \u201cElection Year Issues\u201d (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-tege\/eotopici02.pdf\">http:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-tege\/eotopici02.pdf<\/a>).<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_as-a-university-student-may-i-display-a-partisan-political-sign-in-my-residence-hall-room\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_as-a-university-student-may-i-display-a-partisan-political-sign-in-my-residence-hall-room\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#as-a-university-student-may-i-display-a-partisan-political-sign-in-my-residence-hall-room\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"as-a-university-student-may-i-display-a-partisan-political-sign-in-my-residence-hall-room\">As a university student, may I display a partisan political sign in my residence hall room?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"as-a-university-student-may-i-display-a-partisan-political-sign-in-my-residence-hall-room\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_as-a-university-student-may-i-display-a-partisan-political-sign-in-my-residence-hall-room\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes. So long as you comply with university and residence hall policies governing the posting of signs in dormitory rooms, and any other applicable time, place, and manner restrictions, such activity would be permissible. See, <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/code\/admin_code\/uws\/18\/08\/9\">Wis. Admin. Code UWS \u00a7 18.08(9)<\/a>.<\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"cfct-module uwsa-tabs-accordions\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"cfct-mod-title \">FAQs for Political Activity on Campus<\/h3>    <div class=\"bs-accordion \">\n            <div class=\"accordion-all-buttons\">\n          <a href=\"#\" class=\"accordions-showall btn btn-primary btn-xs\" role=\"button\" data-panel=\"m3ayg\"><span class=\"uw-resize-full\">Open All<\/span><\/a>\n        <\/div>\n        <div id=\"m3ayg\" class=\"panel-group\">\n        \n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_what-types-of-educational-events-may-the-campus-engage-in-to-encourage-voter-education-and-participation\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_what-types-of-educational-events-may-the-campus-engage-in-to-encourage-voter-education-and-participation\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#what-types-of-educational-events-may-the-campus-engage-in-to-encourage-voter-education-and-participation\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"what-types-of-educational-events-may-the-campus-engage-in-to-encourage-voter-education-and-participation\">What types of educational events may the campus engage in to encourage voter education and participation?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"what-types-of-educational-events-may-the-campus-engage-in-to-encourage-voter-education-and-participation\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_what-types-of-educational-events-may-the-campus-engage-in-to-encourage-voter-education-and-participation\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>The campus may host non-partisan events to encourage voter education and participation, such as candidate forums and voter registration efforts. These activities must be non-partisan for the sole purpose of voter education. If candidates are invited on campus, all legally qualified candidates must be invited and given an equal opportunity to speak and participate. Permissible activities include speeches, question-and-answer sessions, debates, or similar activities. A statement should be given that the university does not endorse nor oppose any of the candidates. The Universities of Wisconsin policy on the use of university facilities, <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/code\/admin_code\/uws\/21\">Wis. Admin. Code UWS \u00a7 21<\/a>, and relevant institutional policies apply. Please note that state law strictly prohibits the use of state-owned buildings for political fundraising. <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/11\/xii\/1207\">Wis. Stat. \u00a7 11.1207<\/a>.<\/p><p>Electronic resources may also be used for non-partisan voter education purposes. For example, a university web page with current election information may include a link to candidates\u2019 websites if the web page includes all legally qualified candidates and excludes any commentary in support or against a candidate, express or implied. Again, a statement should be included that the university does not endorse nor oppose any of the candidates. If discussion space is provided, the university should include a disclaimer that the opinions expressed on the discussion board do not represent those of the university. Websites used for voter education purposes should be regularly monitored to ensure that they are not modified for the purposes of advocating for a particular candidate or political party.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_is-it-important-that-institutions-sponsor-political-events-that-offer-opportunities-to-all-candidates-seeking-election-to-the-same-political-office\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_is-it-important-that-institutions-sponsor-political-events-that-offer-opportunities-to-all-candidates-seeking-election-to-the-same-political-office\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#is-it-important-that-institutions-sponsor-political-events-that-offer-opportunities-to-all-candidates-seeking-election-to-the-same-political-office\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"is-it-important-that-institutions-sponsor-political-events-that-offer-opportunities-to-all-candidates-seeking-election-to-the-same-political-office\">Is it important that institutions sponsor political events that offer opportunities to all candidates seeking election to the same political office?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"is-it-important-that-institutions-sponsor-political-events-that-offer-opportunities-to-all-candidates-seeking-election-to-the-same-political-office\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_is-it-important-that-institutions-sponsor-political-events-that-offer-opportunities-to-all-candidates-seeking-election-to-the-same-political-office\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes. A balanced approach is required. For example, all campaigns of candidates seeking election to the same political office should be offered the same or a similar opportunity to participate in a university-sponsored event. However, if when offered the opportunity, one or more candidates decline, it is still appropriate to host the event for those who have accepted the invitation. During the event a statement should be made indicating that all candidates were provided with an equal opportunity to participate.<\/p><p>It should be noted, however, that the same principle does not necessarily apply to candidates who speak to a class at the invitation of an instructor. For example, a professor who invites a Republican legislator to speak to a class on the history of the Republican Party is not obligated to invite the legislator\u2019s Democratic opponent. The invitation, however, should relate to the course material and should not be for the purpose of advancing one political candidate over another.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_may-individuals-or-candidates-distribute-campaign-literature-on-campus\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_may-individuals-or-candidates-distribute-campaign-literature-on-campus\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#may-individuals-or-candidates-distribute-campaign-literature-on-campus\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"may-individuals-or-candidates-distribute-campaign-literature-on-campus\">May individuals or candidates distribute campaign literature on campus?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"may-individuals-or-candidates-distribute-campaign-literature-on-campus\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_may-individuals-or-candidates-distribute-campaign-literature-on-campus\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes. Campaigning is permitted in public areas at UW institutions, subject to institutional policies concerning the time, place, and manner for conducting such activities. Similarly, distribution of political literature and campaigning may be conducted in residence halls, subject to institutional policies governing the time, place, and manner for engaging in such activities.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_do-candidates-and-political-organizations-have-access-to-mailing-lists-of-faculty-students-and-staff\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_do-candidates-and-political-organizations-have-access-to-mailing-lists-of-faculty-students-and-staff\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#do-candidates-and-political-organizations-have-access-to-mailing-lists-of-faculty-students-and-staff\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"do-candidates-and-political-organizations-have-access-to-mailing-lists-of-faculty-students-and-staff\">Do candidates and political organizations have access to mailing lists of faculty, students, and staff?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"do-candidates-and-political-organizations-have-access-to-mailing-lists-of-faculty-students-and-staff\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_do-candidates-and-political-organizations-have-access-to-mailing-lists-of-faculty-students-and-staff\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Yes, to the extent that this information is available to the public. Some campuses provide this information in their staff and student directories that are available for purchase by the public. Other campuses may supply employee and student mailing lists upon request, with a fee charged at the time of request in order to cover the costs of generating the lists.<\/p><p>University employees and students who choose not to have this information disclosed are annually offered the opportunity to have their names and home addresses withheld from these mailing lists.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_are-institutions-required-to-charge-candidates-who-attend-campus-receptions-what-about-legislators-who-are-currently-in-office\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_are-institutions-required-to-charge-candidates-who-attend-campus-receptions-what-about-legislators-who-are-currently-in-office\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#are-institutions-required-to-charge-candidates-who-attend-campus-receptions-what-about-legislators-who-are-currently-in-office\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"are-institutions-required-to-charge-candidates-who-attend-campus-receptions-what-about-legislators-who-are-currently-in-office\">Are institutions required to charge candidates who attend campus receptions? What about legislators who are currently in office?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"are-institutions-required-to-charge-candidates-who-attend-campus-receptions-what-about-legislators-who-are-currently-in-office\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_are-institutions-required-to-charge-candidates-who-attend-campus-receptions-what-about-legislators-who-are-currently-in-office\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>The general rule for those currently holding office is that university-sponsored functions are a benefit to the UW System and not to a particular legislator or party. Accordingly, there should generally be no charge to state legislators or officials who attend campus receptions. However, care should be taken to comply with applicable ethical and legal requirements (see generally, <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/19\/iii\/45\/3m\">Wis. Stats. \u00a7\u00a7 19.45(3m)<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.legis.wisconsin.gov\/statutes\/statutes\/19\/iii\/56\/3\">19.56(3)<\/a>), including restrictions on the use of federal funds for lobbying purposes and limits on the circumstances in which legislators and state officials may receive hospitality such as food or athletic tickets in connection with events or parties hosted by a campus.<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            <div class=\"panel panel-default \" id=\"panel_may-campuses-lease-office-space-for-elected-officials-at-the-local-state-or-federal-level\">\n    <div class=\"panel-heading\" id=\"heading_may-campuses-lease-office-space-for-elected-officials-at-the-local-state-or-federal-level\">\n        <h4 class=\"panel-title\"><button href=\"#may-campuses-lease-office-space-for-elected-officials-at-the-local-state-or-federal-level\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed panel-link\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"may-campuses-lease-office-space-for-elected-officials-at-the-local-state-or-federal-level\">May campuses lease office space for elected officials at the local, state or federal level?<\/button><\/h4>    <\/div>\n    <div id=\"may-campuses-lease-office-space-for-elected-officials-at-the-local-state-or-federal-level\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"  role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"heading_may-campuses-lease-office-space-for-elected-officials-at-the-local-state-or-federal-level\" role=\"region\">\n        <div class=\"panel-body copy\">            \n            \n        <p>Campuses may not offer leased office space for elected officials or political campaigns at the local, state, or federal level since it is inconsistent with our institutions\u2019 missions and facilities use guidelines, which limit facilities use for organizations that are not associated with an institution. However, such elected officials or candidates may rent on-campus conference or meeting rooms for the purpose of political campaign activities as described under FAQs for UW Students and Recognized Student Groups.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>                <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n            \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"cfct-module uwsa-rich-text\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"cfct-mod-content copy\"><p>Last updated: February 2024<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-74","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","cfct-can-haz-build"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/74","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=74"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/74\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3741,"href":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/74\/revisions\/3741"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wisconsin.edu\/government-relations\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=74"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}