Ballot Measures Staff FAQ
BALLOT MEASURES: What HMC-1 Employees Need to Know
Many HMC One Team members have asked how they can help share information about the upcoming Tax Levy Vote and General Obligation Bond. This FAQ is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and clear boundaries.
Why is this guidance important?
Missouri law sets clear rules for what public employees can and cannot do related to ballot measures. Following these rules protects you, your colleagues, and the district.
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What does “on the clock” mean?
“On the clock” includes:
- Your scheduled work hours
- Using district resources (email, computers, copiers, websites, social media, phones)
- Representing HMC-1 in an official capacity
On the Clock: What CAN I do?
You may:
- Share purely factual information about the ballot measures
- Explain:
- Why the measures are on the ballot
- How funds would be used
- What happens if they pass or fail
- Financial and educational impacts
- Use district-approved materials to inform, not persuade
Key word: Inform, not advocate.
On the Clock: What CAN’T I do?
You may not:
- Advocate for or against the ballot measures
- Share personal opinions during the workday
- Use district email, phones, social media, or supplies to promote a vote
- Use parent, student, or staff contact lists for advocacy
- Make exceptions to facility use rules for advocacy groups
- Send advocacy messages using district
- accounts or devices
What does “off the clock” mean?
“Off the clock” includes:
- Evenings, weekends, lunch breaks
- Personal time away from work
- Using your personal phone, email, social media, and resources
Off the Clock: What CAN I do?
Using personal resources, you may:
- Speak publicly in favor of the ballot measures
- Volunteer with a campaign or committee
- Talk with friends, family, and neighbors
- Send texts or emails from your personal accounts
- Attend rallies or community meetings
- Display yard signs or stickers
- Advocate in speeches or public statements
Can I tell people how I plan to vote?
On the clock: No
Off the clock: Yes, using personal time and resources
What if someone asks me questions at work?
You can:
- Share factual, district-approved information
- Direct them to official district resources
- You should not:
- Share personal opinions
- Encourage or discourage a vote
Why are the rules so strict?
Missouri law (RSMo 115.646) prohibits the use of public resources for advocacy. A purposeful violation is a Class 4 offense, punishable by fines, jail time, or both.
Bottom Line:
On the clock – Inform with facts
Off the clock – Advocate if you choose