Tracks: HR – Human Resources, pay and benefits, and leave
Is it a Hatch Act violation to forward an email you received from a political party? Are you permitted to tweet your views about a candidate during your lunch break? How about inviting friends to a fundraiser? This session will provide a detailed look at the prohibited and permitted activities under the Hatch Act, which governs the political activity of federal employees. Special attention will be placed on novel issues and emerging trends the Office of Special Counsel observed during and since the last election cycle, as well as recent disciplinary actions. Guidance will be provided on how agencies can promote a non-partisan work environment this year and beyond. The session also will cover the Hatch Act obligations of employees who are working from home, given the unprecedented number of federal employees who have been teleworking due to the COVID-19 pandemic.