Political Campaign Events on Property Under the Control of Tarleton State University

PURPOSE: To provide guidance for persons who seek political office or campaign organizations
                    about the use of Tarleton State University property and facilities for political campaign
                    activities and events.

1.  INTRODUCTION

As a state institution of higher education, Tarleton State University is required to remain neutral in partisan political activities. Individual faculty, staff, and students enjoy all constitutional rights and privileges concerning freedom of speech and participation in political events. Such events, however, on the Tarleton campus are subject to reasonable time, place and safety restrictions.

2.  ENDORSEMENT OF CANDIDATES AND OFFICEHOIJDRRS

Tarleton State University will not endorse, recommend, or otherwise indicate partisan political support for any candidate for an elected office, or for any current officeholder of such an office.

3.  USE OF FACILITIES

Any individual, university organization, or political party desiring to use Tarleton State    University's facilities for campaign or related political events must make a formal request to the Office of the President. The use of Tarleton facilities may require a rental fee. All requests that can be reasonably and safely accommodated without detracting from the purpose and operations of the university will be approved.

Student, faculty, or staff organizations that have been officially recognized and/or approved by Tarleton State University will be routinely processed. These groups are eligible to request the use of facilities.

Non-institutionally affiliated entities will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Tarleton State University will not discriminate against any non-institutionally affiliated entities based on political viewpoint.

Should Tarleton property or facilities be approved for use by political candidates or parties, a sign with the words that follow must be displayed near the event.

"By policy Tarleton State University is required to remain neutral in political activities. The use of Tarleton facilities and property by candidates and political organizations does not imply or indicate support for any candidate or political party."

4.  CURRENT OFFICEHOLDERS

When holders of a political office visit Tarleton State University , they shall be afforded all due respect and courtesies to which their office entitles them. However, they may not engage in  any partisan political activities, including campaigning for themselves or on behalf of others. If the nature of an officeholder's visit is not clear prior to arrival, Tarleton State University will use its best efforts to determine in advance if the officeholder(s) will be engaging in any partisan activities during the visit.

5.   USE OF TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY SYMBOLS, INSIGNIA, AND OTHER IDENTIFYING MARKS

The use of any Tarleton State University symbol, insignia, or other identifiable mark in  association with any partisan political activity, including campaigns by political candidates, is prohibited.