Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual - Policy 3735: Political Activity

Date Originally Issued: 10-26-1994

Subject to Change Without Notice

1. General

The University recognizes and approves the right of free speech and expression of opinion on any subject by any member of the University community, whether the subject relates to on or off campus issues. Those who speak or act shall not do so in the name of the University or any of its organizations unless there has been specific authorization by the administration to do so.

1.1. The University shall not be an instrument of partisan political action, in order to assure its autonomy and integrity.  The expression of political opinions and viewpoints will be those of the individual and not of the University.

1.2. All University employees should feel free to engage in political activities so far as they are able to do so consistent with their full obligations to the University and in accordance with applicable laws.

2. Restrictions

The University recognizes the legitimacy and social importance of political activity by employees. University employees may engage in lawful political activities. However, such activity, like any other personal, non-official undertaking must be done on the employee's own time and should not interfere with University duties. Employees may not:

• Campaign during work hours.
• Use University supplies or equipment for campaign purposes.
• Represent their political views or the views of any candidate as being those of the University.
• Use employee mailing labels (either home or office addresses) produced by the University for distributing campaign materials. A candidate may obtain addresses from the UNM student, faculty, and staff directory, or other published addressed lists.
• Distribute campaign material through campus mail unless it has been received by a federal post office and is properly postmarked.

University employees may run for the state legislature. However, under state law, any University employee who is elected to the legislature would be required to resign his or her position with the University, or if approved, take a leave of absence for the duration of his or her entire term.