The next primary election is a little less than a month away. Now is the time to make sure you are able to participate in this important civic activity on March 3, 2020.
If you haven’t done so already you may register to vote in California online: https://registertovote.ca.gov/. Or find out more information about this upcoming election at the County of Santa Cruz Election’s website: https://www.votescount.com
Election season also brings robust campaigning
While we are glad to see our community is engaged with the various contests and topics, I want to remind everyone that there are legal restrictions on University of California involvement in political campaign activities based on the status of the university as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization and as a state entity.
Specifically, the university may not endorse/oppose (or contribute to) political candidates, nor may university resources (including university-paid time or equipment) be used for campaign purposes in connection with ballot propositions or measures.
While it is important to ensure that voters are informed and engaged, it is also important to abide by University of California policies around the appropriate rules of “time, place, and manner.” We want to ensure fairness in our elections processes and that we are not using state resources or facilities for campaign purposes and that information is presented in a balanced manner.
To this end, state law and University policies (Policy on Speech and Advocacy and Policy on use of university properties), provide guidelines on how and where campaign materials may be posted on campus. Please also note that those wishing to post materials at certain locations must check with that location to ensure compliance with the posting rules and procedures of the particular location.
Organizations and individuals not affiliated with the university must also comply with the Regulations Governing Conduct of Non-Affiliates in the Buildings and on the Grounds of the University of California and may post and distribute materials only on bulletin boards designated for public use: outdoor kiosks and the interior of bus shelters. These areas will be cleared of all materials on a regular basis.
Thank you for helping to ensure fair and balanced elections!
