Jan. 30, 1997-Vol28n18: Parameters on Political Fundraising/Campaign Activities by Members of the UB Community

Parameters on Political Fundraising/Campaign Activities by Members of the UB Community

This month's Presidential Inaugural marked the formal close of the 1996 election cycle. Before the inevitable beginning of another election cycle, and in light of the university's ongoing work within a political environment, it is appropriate to remind ourselves of several important parameters pertaining to political fundraising and other campaign activities by or among university personnel. Such parameters are found in state law, and it is essential that UB employees stay within them.

This statement is not intended as a comprehensive review of existing law on the topic of political activities by state employees, but rather as a response to several practical inquiries raised in the last election campaign. It is very important that all UB faculty and staff note and comply with the following points:

· There must be a clear separation between political campaign activities and the performance of duties as employees of the State University of New York. Political activities, including fundraising, may not be conducted on state property or state time.
· No political fundraising tickets may be sold, purchased or transferred on campus, either inside or outside of buildings. Similarly, no money or checks may be paid or collected on campus for such purposes.
· Moreover, university employees are prohibited from soliciting political contributions off hours and off campus from other university employees, if such circumstances give either the reality or appearance of coercion. UB personnel should not solicit such contributions, nor attempt to compel any other political action or vote, from those individuals over whom they have supervisory authority.
· No university telephones, faxes, supplies, letterhead, postage or other state resources of any kind may be used for political purposes.

These and other restrictions are primarily contained in Section 74 of the Public Officers Law, Section 107 of the Civil Service Law and Section 17-158 of the Election Law. Copies of these New York State laws are available for pickup at the circulation desk of Lockwood Library and the Law Library (205 O'Brian Hall) on the North Campus, and at the circulation desk of the Health Sciences Library on the South Campus. It is important to understand that, pursuant to state law, political activities on state time or property may subject employees to criminal prosecution and the loss of employment.

We at UB should be willing and eager to take an active part in the political processes of our community, state and country. It is critically important, however, that we undertake such activity only as private individuals and within proper parameters as established by the laws of the State of New York. We must give careful attention to these issues and comply absolutely with applicable restrictions.

William R. Greiner
President