Key takeaways:
- Employees are encouraged to participate in civic and voter engagement.
- Federal and state laws restrict political activity during work and the use of public resources for political advocacy.
- When participating personally, employees should make clear that their views are their own and do not represent MSU Denver.
MSU Denver has long made civic engagement a proud part of the University’s culture through related courses for students, community partnerships and participation in the democratic process. As the November midterm elections approach, many may be looking for ways to advocate for issues they care about or participate in campaigns.
While the University encourages political engagement, the institution and its employees must comply with federal and state laws that prohibit engaging in political activity while at work. Additionally, employees cannot use University resources such as offices, phones, tablets, computers, email, copy machines, etc., for lobbying or political activities.
Employees acting on their own time and not using MSU Denver resources face no restrictions.
In alignment with the University’s Political Activity and Lobbying Policy, the Civic Guide offers additional information on laws and guidelines for civic engagement for employees.
What you can do:
Employees acting on their own time and not using MSU Denver resources face no legal restrictions, meaning you may participate in any of the below, while making clear you are acting in a personal capacity:
- Advocate for or against candidates or ballot issues.
- Volunteer for campaigns or political organizations.
- Make political contributions.
- Solicit signatures or participate in other campaign activities.
- Engage in personal lobbying or advocacy.
What to keep separate from work:
Employees generally may not:
- Conduct campaign activities during working hours.
- Use MSU Denver email to advocate for or against candidates or ballot issues.
- Use University computers, phones, printers, supplies or office space for campaigning.
- Use University resources for political advocacy.
- Suggest that a personal political position represents MSU Denver.
“Civic engagement plays an essential role in the lives of educated citizens and our country’s country’s democracy, especially for those within a vibrant university setting,” said John Masserini, dean of the College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, who helped develop the Civic Guide. “We want MSU Denver faculty and staff to understand related laws and have access to workplace and classroom management guidelines, so they feel empowered to participate in civic engagement while maintaining a productive learning environment.”
Find election and civic engagement resources
The MSU Denver Civic Guide brings together voter resources, guidance for employees, information about civil discourse and peaceful assembly, and relevant University policies.
Employees with questions about political or lobbying activities should contact the General Counsel’s Office.
