it OK to raise money for the local peewee football team on postal property? Can postal employees sell Girl Scout cookies or candy to their co-workers?
According to the USPS Ethics Office, the answer to both questions is “no.” Due to a recent increase in these kinds of questions, USPS is reminding employees about the general rules that apply when these situations arise.
Except for the Combined Federal Campaign, federal regulations prohibit fundraising on federal property. Employees also are subject to Conduct on Postal Property regulations and the Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch.
The combined sets of regulations mean while they’re at work, employees cannot sell or take orders for any merchandise or service. And that’s true regardless of whether the solicitation benefits even the neediest of causes.
With limited exceptions, employees can engage in fundraising activities in their personal capacity, while they’re off the clock and away from USPS facilities. But they can’t solicit funds from persons who have or who are trying to develop a business relationship with USPS. Nor can they lend their official title to promote fundraising efforts by non-postal businesses or individuals.
Employees also cannot use Postal Service property or equipment — such as fax machines, copiers, e-mail or telephones — to solicit charitable donations or conduct any kind of commercial activity. And even in their personal capacity, federal employees can’t solicit from a subordinate in the workplace.
Supervisor [named removed by PEN] golden Colorado thinks she is not subject to these rules. She is selling handbags and diet/weight loss/ supplement products on the premises. But the carriers aren’t allowed our beloved Girl Scout cookies or Boy Scout popcorn? Not fair.
DS – thank you for posting at PEN. Please, do not post named of postal employees. Thank you for understanding.