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Use of State Resources for Political Purposes

For UW faculty and staff

The political campaign season is once again upon us. We should all be reminded that employees may not use University facilities, phones, and computer systems (such as email and the internet) for campaign purposes. Under state ethics law, it is illegal to use state resources to support or oppose any ballot proposition (such as initiatives and referendums) or to assist or oppose any candidate for election.

The University's policy is stated at:
Personal Use of University Facilities, Computers, and Equipment by University Employees

Further information can be found at the Washington State Executive Ethics Board website.

Historically, the Ethics Board has taken these rules against campaigning seriously and has brought enforcement actions against individual employees.

If you have questions or concerns about this issue, please reply to provost@u.washington.edu.