Summary
Some Department of Education employees say that their out-of-office emails were changed without permission during a government shutdown. These changes included messages blaming Democrats for the shutdown. The changes may violate the Hatch Act, a law that prevents federal employees from engaging in political activities.
Key Facts
- Department of Education employees reported their automated emails were changed without consent.
- The emails reportedly blamed Democrats for the government shutdown.
- The government shutdown occurred after Congress did not agree on a funding measure.
- Approximately 87% of the 2,500 employees at the Education Department have been furloughed.
- Changing emails without consent might violate the Hatch Act, a law prohibiting political activities by federal employees.
- Some advocacy groups filed complaints about government communications that may violate federal laws.
- Newsweek reached out to the Education Department for comments but had not verified employee claims at the time of reporting.
- The Hatch Act prevents federal employees from participating in political campaigns and other political activities.
