Now that campaigning for various state and local positions is in full swing, Laboratory workers are reminded about what is and what isn't allowed in the workplace.
According to the Laboratory's Administrative Manual, campaigning is prohibited on Lab premises; this includes leased and rented facilities. Campaign activities include, but aren't limited to, distribution of campaign literature, buttons and cards and personal "handshaking" appearances or political speeches by candidates.
Candidates also are prohibited from having photographs or video tapings taken within Laboratory premises for use in campaign promotions.
In addition, Lab workers can't solicit or receive political contributions on Laboratory-operated property or in any place occupied for any purpose by the Laboratory.
Though the Lab neither encourages nor discourages employee discussion of political beliefs or participation in political activities, Lab workers must ensure that the Lab and the University of California cannot be interpreted as endorsing any candidate.
Lab workers may wear campaign buttons, have stickers and even placards on their vehicles parked in Laboratory lots. Employees also can discuss their political views with each other, but they can't engage in politicking.
More information can be found in the Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual, (AM) 709, Political Activities and AM 701, Government Resources.
For more information or questions and concerns about campaigning, contact Staff Relations (HR-SR) at 7-8730.
