The following is a discussion of restrictions on political
activity by federal government employees, and by employees
of certain state and local government agencies, under the
Hatch Act.
In 1993, Congress passed legislation that significantly
amended the Hatch Act as it applies to federal and D.C.
employees (5 U.S.C. §§ 7321-7326). Under the amendments
most federal and D.C. employees are now permitted to take
an active part in political management and political campaigns.
A small group of federal employees are subject to greater
restrictions and continue to be prohibited from engaging
in partisan political management and partisan political
campaigns.
OSC has developed a number of booklets, posters and fact
sheets that explain the application of the Hatch Act. Copies
of the booklets and posters can be ordered from the Government
Printing Office.
Below is information that may be used to provide or brief
employees on the restrictions. Additional information is
provided on the U.S.
Office of Special Counsel website.
Reviewed: 12/19/07
