(WVEC) -- In a time where news consumption is greater on mobile devices and social media, the United States Navy is taking action to make sure their sailors know how to appropriately voice their opinion on social media.
Navy Live, the official blog of the United States Navy published a best practices article on a subject matter that has reached a new light in recent months.
The post outlines protocol for service members and Department of the Defense civilians.
Service members:
Active-duty Sailors may generally express their personal views about public issues or political candidates using social media — just like they can write a letter to a newspaper’s editor. If the social media site or content identifies the Sailor as on active duty (or if they’re reasonably identifiable as an active-duty Sailor), then the content needs to clearly and prominently state that the views expressed are those of the individual only and not those of the Department of Defense (DoD).
Department of Defense civilians:
- Don’t engage in political activity while on duty or in the workplace, even if the employee is using their personal smartphone, tablet or laptop to do so. Federal employees are “on duty” when they’re in a pay status (including during telework hours) other than paid leave or are representing the government in an official capacity
- Don’t engage in political activity in an official capacity at any time
- Don’t solicit or receive political contributions at any time
DoD civilians need to consider the Hatch Act and DoD policy in conjunction.
The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from the following:
The Navy says the information they have listed does not cover everything, but if a member should have any specific questions they should consult their command's ethics representative.
To see more frequently asked questions click here.
