State and Federal Regulations on Political Activity
While the University of Northern Iowa respects the right of its employees and students to actively engage in the political process, state and federal laws generally prohibit the use of the university and its resources to promote partisan political causes, campaigns and candidates.
Employees and students are encouraged to read and understand the boundaries of involvement of the university in the political process.
Employees should speak and act as individual citizens but must not say or imply that their views represent those of the university. An employee may use his or her university title for purposes of identification but may not imply that the university endorses or agrees with the employee’s statements or activities. The employee should clarify that he or she is speaking individually and not on behalf of, or as a representative of, the university.
Employee participation in political activities in support of candidates or ballot initiatives must take place on his or her own time and with his or her own equipment and supplies.
Specific restrictions under Iowa law include:
State employees are prohibited from participating or supporting a particular campaign during working hours. Iowa Code § 721.5.
Public money and resources may not be used to advocate for or against a candidate or ballot issue. Iowa Code § 68A.505; Iowa Administrative Code § 351-5.4.
Campaign signs shall not be placed on state property. Iowa Code § 68A.406(2). This provision has been construed to allow students to place such materials in their own residence rooms. Areas designated as public forums will be available for expression of political views consistent with university rules and regulations.
Federal law requires equal and fair access to the university for all candidates. Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 as amended. Example: if a candidate or speaker for a ballot issue is invited to speak at a class or on campus, opposing candidates and speakers must be afforded the same opportunity.
Permissible activities sponsored by the university include:
Participation in voter registration or voter education, as long as there is no advocacy for or against a particular candidate or ballot issue.
Conducting a candidate forum or series of events, which is balanced in nature and intended to educate the campus community on candidates or issues relevant to an election.
Conducting/presenting research on the political process, given that it does not represent pretext for support of a candidate or ballot measure.
Commenting on the impact of ballot measures or candidate positions on the university in a manner that reflects concern about the institution rather than in an attempt to influence the outcome for a candidate or ballot measure.
Sponsorship of a candidate appearance by a recognized student organization or official university, office or agency, the purpose for which is a debate and discussion of ideas rather than endorsement of the candidate or his/her position(s). Please see Political Campaign Guidelines at www.uni.edu/presidentialforum/guidelines.shtml.
Questions should be directed to University Counsel, Tim McKenna at 273-3241 or tim.mckenna@uni.edu.
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