Politicking Protocol

Just a reminder that if you want to run for a partisan political office, you need to be mindful of the federal law known as the Hatch Act.

If you are going to be involved in any political campaigns, please take a look at the Tennessee law known as the Little Hatch Act (Tenn. Code Ann. 2-19-201 et seq).

In general, because our Agency receives federal funds, you cannot be a DCS employee and run for partisan political office.

If you think that your case is an exception, then you must get an advisory opinion from the federal Office of the Special Counsel for the Hatch Act (Hatchact@osc.gov)  and send the General Counsel's a copy of that opinion if in fact you meet one of the exceptions.

You should also remember that the Little Hatch Act prohibits state employees from displaying campaign literature, banners, signs, etc. on behalf on any candidate in places such as state buildings and on state vehicles. Again, if you have questions about this, contact the General Counsel's office.