As University of Utah employees, there are certain rules and policies we must adhere to, and as the Staff Council Legislative Committee, we strive to educate our fellow staff about how to get involved while staying within the boundaries of university and state policy.

State and University Policy

• Any engagement in the political process (e.g.: communications with news outlets, politicians,
  civic engagement such as running for office or campaigning) must be done on personal time,
  using personal emails and personal devices
• It must be clear that you are participating as an individual citizen and that you in no way represent the
  U in any official capacity
• The Utah System of Higher Education’s official policy regarding legislative communications
• The U’s official Free Speech Policy

Educate Yourself

• Research local government structure: Understand how your local government operates, including the
  roles of city or town councils, school boards, and other relevant bodies
• Learn about local issues: Stay informed about current events and local challenges to better understand
  the issues that matter to you and your community
• Sign up for the Utah Legislature’s bill tracker and remember to use your personal email address
• Stay informed about happenings in higher education by signing up for updates from the Higher
  Education Appropriations subcommittee

Attend Local Meetings

• Attend city council, school board, and other public meetings. This will give you insight into the decision-making process and help you understand the issues being discussed
• Salt Lake City Council meetings
• School board meetings
• Public meetings
• Participate in community forums. Many communities hold public forums to discuss specific topics or projects. Attend these events to engage with local leaders and community members

Stay Informed

• Read local news. Stay informed about local politics by reading local newspapers, online news sources, and community newsletters
• Sign up for the Daily Utah Chronicle to get insight into what topics are concerning to our students
• The Chronicle of Higher Education is a national publication that keeps track of trends, news, and policies happening in higher ed across the country