Otter Tail County adopts formal Hatch Act compliance policy for employees
May 27, 2026 | Otter Tail County, Minnesota
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Otter Tail County commissioners on Thursday adopted a new Political Activity and Hatch Act Compliance policy intended to make explicit what county employees may and may not do when it comes to partisan political activity.
The measure, placed into the employee relations personnel rules as Section 425, was introduced by a county staff member and presented to the board as a standalone policy after earlier references to political activity were scattered through existing rules. It specifies that employees may not use their official authority, title or influence to participate in political activity; may not compel others to participate; may not solicit, accept or receive political contributions; and may not engage in political activity while on duty, in county uniform, or using county equipment. The policy also notes that running for partisan office may be restricted for positions that receive federal funding under the Hatch Act, while employees acting off duty in a private capacity remain protected by the First Amendment.
Board members voted to adopt the policy without objection. Staff said they will prepare concise one‑page references for employees and supervisors to clarify permissible activity and practical examples of compliance.
The policy came after discussion at the Administration & Operations Committee on May 12 and aims to centralize guidance that had previously been spread through multiple personnel documents.
The board approved the adoption by voice vote and commissioners directed staff to circulate the one‑page guidance materials when they are ready.
The measure, placed into the employee relations personnel rules as Section 425, was introduced by a county staff member and presented to the board as a standalone policy after earlier references to political activity were scattered through existing rules. It specifies that employees may not use their official authority, title or influence to participate in political activity; may not compel others to participate; may not solicit, accept or receive political contributions; and may not engage in political activity while on duty, in county uniform, or using county equipment. The policy also notes that running for partisan office may be restricted for positions that receive federal funding under the Hatch Act, while employees acting off duty in a private capacity remain protected by the First Amendment.
Board members voted to adopt the policy without objection. Staff said they will prepare concise one‑page references for employees and supervisors to clarify permissible activity and practical examples of compliance.
The policy came after discussion at the Administration & Operations Committee on May 12 and aims to centralize guidance that had previously been spread through multiple personnel documents.
The board approved the adoption by voice vote and commissioners directed staff to circulate the one‑page guidance materials when they are ready.
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