The Hatch Act bars Federal employees from engaging in certain political activities. While most employees may engage in a wide range of partisan political activities during off-duty hours, they may not do so while on duty or on Government premises. In short, employees should not mix their political activities with their Government activities.
The Ethics Law and Programs Office provides advice on the Hatch Act, but does not investigate alleged violations of the Act. Please contact the Ethics Law and Programs Office or refer to the handouts below for additional information. You may report a suspected violation of the Hatch Act to the Office of Special Counsel.
NOTE: Special rules apply to certain employees. Career members of the Senior Executive Service, administrative law judges, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Corps officers are all subject to additional limitations on their off-duty political activities. Presidential appointees who have been confirmed by the Senate, on the other hand, may engage in certain on-duty political activities.
PAS REVIEW FORMS: Official event with a candidate or within 90 days of an election • Non-official political event
General Employee Information
- Political Activities and Social Media
- OSC Hatch Act Social Media Quick Guide
- Summary of Political Activity Rules
- Top 5 Political Activities Rules
- A Word About Ethics - Political Activities
- Ethics at a Glance - Political Activities
- Ethics at a Glance - Engaging in Political Activities and Engaging in Official Events with Candidates
- Ethics Guidance - Participating in Events Within 90 Days of an Election or with a Candidate for Office Present
- Political Activity Do's and Don'ts
- 3 Minutes of Ethics - Political Activities