Use of university facilities for political activities

Washington University enjoys tax exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Section 501(c)(3) absolutely prohibits the university from participating or intervening, directly or indirectly, in any political campaign. Violation of this prohibition can result in loss of the university's tax exempt status. Federal Elections Commission regulations also restrict certain partisan activities, and the State of Missouri Charter that established the university imposes the principle of political neutrality.

The Internal Revenue Service and Federal Elections Commission have established limited exceptions to these prohibitions, generally dealing with non-partisan educational and voter registration activities. Subject to some limitations (see the attached Guidelines), candidates and other political speakers may be invited to speak on campus. Registered university political groups may also use university facilities for meetings at which participation is limited to members of the university community. However, university facilities may not otherwise be used for partisan political meetings, receptions or fund raisers.

Please see the Guidelines for Candidates and other Political Speakers, which provides some more specific guidance regarding campus visitors. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need further information or have questions concerning any proposed activity or event.