Labor 2008

Know what political activities you can
(and can't) do under Little Hatch Act

QUESTION:
Can OCSEA members be involved
in political activities?

ANSWER: Yes!

As a classified public employee, you are able to engage in some partisan political activities as long as they are member-to member.

The Little Hatch Act, which restricts the activity of classified public employees, was passed by Ohio and eight other states to prevent public officials from making promises of employment or promotion due to a person’s political party or affiliation. *

However, there are activities that classified public employees can participate in such as talking to a union co-worker about a candidate or an issue. See below for what you can and can’t do.

* If the Hatch Act is violated, employees could face discipline up to and including removal.

See Related

Little Hatch Act - DOs and DON'Ts for political activities (PDF)

OCSEA Grassroots Factsheet on Little Hatch Act

Action Pack Planning Kit