In Illinois, using public resources for campaign activities, including food boxes and on-the-clock employees, is generally prohibited. Here are some key points regarding the use of public resources and employees for campaign purposes:
Prohibition on Public Resources: State law prohibits the use of public resources, including public funds, equipment, and facilities, for campaign activities. This includes items such as food boxes provided by a public entity.
Employees on the Clock: Public employees cannot engage in campaign activities while on duty or during work hours. Using employees who are on the clock for campaign purposes is considered a misuse of public resources.
Ethics and Election Laws: Illinois ethics and election laws are designed to ensure a clear separation between official duties and campaign activities. Violating these laws can result in penalties, including fines and other disciplinary actions.
Examples of Prohibited Activities:
Distributing campaign materials using public resources.
Using government-funded programs or supplies for campaign events.
Requiring or requesting public employees to engage in campaign activities during work hours.
To ensure compliance with state laws, it is essential to keep campaign activities entirely separate from official duties and public resources. For specific guidance, it is advisable to consult with a legal expert or refer to the Illinois State Board of Elections and relevant state ethics commissions.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act and the Illinois Election Code, which outline the rules and regulations regarding the use of public resources in electioneering.
