RCW 42.17 was recodified to RCW 42.17A effective January 1, 2012 (see the recodification cross-reference table). For this interpretation see: RCW 42.17.105(8) = 42.17A.420(1)

PDC Interpretation

 

 

 

APPROVAL DATE:	March 24, 1992	NUMBER:	92-01
STATUS:	New	SUPERSEDES:	None
REFERENCES:	RCW 42.17.130	APPROVED BY:	The Commission
SEE ALSO:

 

Wearing Political Pins, Buttons, Etc.

 

 

An elected official or public employee is not acting in violation of RCW 42.17.130 when he or she wears a typical campaign pin or button during normal working hours.  Simply wearing a button which encourages support for or opposition to any candidate or ballot proposition, either directly or indirectly, is a form of personal expression and is not to be regarded as a “use of facilities” within the meaning and intent of the above-referenced statute.

 

Officials or employees who choose to wear such pins or buttons are urged to exercise caution and prudence.  Such personal expression can quite easily lead to other activities which are prohibited.

 

NOTE:  This statement should not be construed as an authorization to wear political pins, buttons, etc., which would override or supersede an agency’s statute, ordinance, rule, policy, etc., restricting such expressions.