Issue Based Apparel at Work

While certain partisan political attire violates the Hatch Act, apparel with an issue-based slogan not tied to a partisan candidate or party is treated differently.

For example, an employee could not wear a shirt bearing a partisan political campaign slogan to work.

However, they could wear a shirt with an issue-based slogan like “Save the Unicorns.”

While not outright prohibited, if issue-based apparel disrupts the Postal Service’s ability to perform its mission, management can determine whether to allow it in the workplace.

Understanding the rules about issue-based apparel helps the Postal Service complete its mission, comply with the law, and maintain public trust.

And that’s smart business.

Contact the Ethics Office (ethics.help@usps.gov) with any questions.