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OCSEA applauds legislators for introducing legislation to repeal “Little Hatch Act”

March 15, 2005 - Senate Majority Floor Leader Randy Gardner (R-Bowling Green) is sponsoring a bill (SB86) that would repeal the law known as the "Little Hatch Act." The law prohibits “classified” public employee involvement in most partisan political activity—even on their own time.

OCSEA leaders applaud Gardner for introducing legislation to help public employees restore their ability to participate more fully in the political process.

“This is the first time since term limits were enacted that legislation repealing Ohio’s hatch law has been introduced,” OCSEA President Ron Alexander said. “Now, we have an opportunity to educate new legislators that public employees are not second class citizens and should be able to participate in partisan politics on their own time.”

Ohio is one of nine states regulated by a “Hatch Act” which prohibits any classified, public employee from engaging in any partisan political activity—not only in the workplace, but on their free time as well.

"I have always believed that all Ohioans should have the freedom to participate equally and fully in the political process," Gardner said, according to The Hannah Report. "This bill helps us achieve that fundamental principle."

What public employees can do is limited by the Ohio Administrative Code 123:1-46-02. It is important for OCSEA members to do all they can do, as so much of what government does and who is elected affects our members’ work lives.

When in doubt, contact OCSEA's Office of General Counsel for a determination. Call 800-269-4702.

See Related

Take Action – Write a letter thanking Sen. Gardner for co-sponsoring SB 86

SB 86 –Senators Gardner, Mallory, Clancy, Spada, Goodman, Schuler, Mumper, Hagan, Miller sponsored legislation that would repeal the “Little Hatch Act.”

Fact Sheet - Dos and Don’ts for public employees