Federal Restrictions on State or Local Government Officer or Employee Political Activities

97-624 -- Federal Restrictions on State or Local Government Officer or Employee Political Activities

June 11, 1997

Summary

Political activities of federal employees are regulated by the Hatch Act.(1) In 1940, the law was amended to cover certain state (including territories or possessions) or local government officers or employees. All but three of the prohibitions on political activity by these individuals were removed in 1974. Enforcement provisions were added in 1978.(2) Legislation is pending in the House of Representatives in the 105th Congress to repeal the provision prohibiting state or local government officers or employees from seeking elective office.