I. Federal Requirements for Implementing Merit System Standards
A. The development of proper and efficient administration of grant-in-aid programs is a concern of both the Federal and the State agencies cooperating in the programs. Proper and efficient administration requires clear definition of functions, the employment of the most competent available personnel, and the development of staff morale and individual efficiency. The merit system provisions of Federal statutes relating to the grant-in-aid program are directed to the achievement of these ends through the application of personnel standards on a merit basis.
B. The University is the recipient of a number of federal grant-in-aid programs. Various federal agencies which make these grants may require the University to enter into a contractual agreement providing for, among other things, the maintenance of acceptable merit system standards, including restrictions on political activities of those employees whose duties are performed substantially in connection with the Federal grant-in-aid program.
C. The Maryland State Agency for Surplus Property, a unit of the University, is the only unit of the University that has been required to date to place restrictions on political activities of its employees.
D. The University System of Maryland Vice Chancellor for General Administration is responsible for informing the President and other appropriate officials of the University of any future contractual requirement that places restrictions on political activities of University employees.
II. Use of University Mailing Facilities
The UMGC's mailing facilities shall not be used for the distribution of non-UMGC, partisan, or political literature or information.
III. Individual Cases
Notwithstanding the exemption of University employees from the provisions of the Hatch Act, and notification of employees affected by merit system standards as described in these Procedures, Any employee who is doubtful about his/her own particular situation, or believes that certain considerations or prohibitions might impinge upon his/her planned political activities, may obtain a specific clarification of his/her individual status. The Office of the General Counsel, U.S. Civil Service Commission, 1900 E Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20415 is available for specific rulings on individual cases with respect to the Hatch Act, or, the UMGC CHRO may be contacted for assistance, including in connection with the Hatch Act or merit system standards issued by Federal agencies.
Replacement for:
Policy 440.30: Policy Regarding Political Activities