The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (“university”) recognizes an employee's right to participate in political activities as long as the political activities:
An employee may request a leave of absence without pay for the purpose of participating in political activity; however the university has no obligation to grant such a request. The interests of the UT System or the university will be given first consideration. In no case will the university grant a leave of absence without pay to an employee to be a candidate for an elective public office, hold an elective public office, or direct the political campaign of a candidate for elective public office.
If an employee wishes to engage in political activity that interferes with the discharge of his or her duties and responsibilities, the employee should voluntarily terminate his or her employment with the university. If the President, the Chancellor, an Executive Vice Chancellor, or the Board of Regents finds that the employee's political activity interferes with the performance of his or her duties and responsibilities or does not comply with the requirements of this policy, the employee will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
See also HOOP Policy 1.21 Communication with Government Officials.
This policy applies to all university employees.
For questions regarding this policy, contact the Office of Legal Affairs.
Updated 07/02, 04/08, 02/09
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