UTA President uses taxpayer resources to oppose concealed weapons
University of Texas at Arlington President, James D. Spaniolo has voiced his opposition to legislation that would allow Concealed weapons on college campuses. As a citizen Spaniolo is certainly entitled to his opinion, but should the taxpayer be funding it?
A message from Spaniolo opposing concealed weapons on campus was published on the University’s website and sent out via email to the UTA Employee listserv. These are taxpayer funded resources. Sharing his opinion on a matter currently being considered by the Texas Legislature, may have violated the TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE Chapter 556: Political Activities by Certain Public Entities and Individuals which states that such actions are not permitted.
PROHIBITED ACTS OF AGENCIES AND INDIVIDUALS
Sec. 556.006. LEGISLATIVE LOBBYING.
(a) A state agency may not use appropriated money to attempt to influence the passage or defeat of a legislative measure.
(b) This section does not prohibit a state officer or employee from using state resources to provide public information or to provide information responsive to a request.
Additionally, Spaniolo’s message appears to also be a violation of the UTA Employee Ethics & Standards of Conduct which states that, “Employees are not allowed to support or oppose legislation (orally or in writing) as representatives of UT Arlington.”
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It was also sent to the students listserv
[...] university resources, or the university’s name, to promote his political agenda. He is using taxpayer-funded resources — namely, the university’s website and email blast system — to promote his [...]