Are you registered to vote?
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, and it’s also an election year! With the Oregon Primary a month away, it’s a good time to revisit some laws and college policies related to voter registration and political activity. We also want to invite you to an upcoming civic engagement event, co-hosted by RCC’s Associated Student Government and Diversity Programming Board. See below for event details and additional resources!
Voter Registration Requirements:
- On the federal level, the Higher Education Act (revised in 1998 and 2008) requires that during election years, colleges and universities that receive federal funds make a “good faith effort” to provide voter registration resources to their students.
- On the state level, ORS 350.245 requires similar voter registration efforts of colleges and universities, and that student government organizations be given an opportunity to provide nonpartisan voter registration services.
Political Activity & Expressive Conduct:
- With regard to political campaigning, the state of Oregon outlines specific rules in ORS 260.432 that a public employee* may not, while on the job during working hours, promote or oppose election petitions, candidates, political committees or ballot measures. For more information, see the Restrictions on Political Advocacy by Public Employees.
- RCC administrative procedure AP 7370 Political Activity, RCC encourages active participation by employees in public affairs, but states that no college funds, services, supplies or equipment may be used to urge the support or defeat of any ballot measure, election petition, candidate or political committee. Additionally, AP 3720 Computer and Network Use prohibits the use of college information resources for partisan political activities where prohibited by federal, state or other applicable laws.
- RCC’s AP 3900 Expressive Conduct outlines the ways in which individuals and groups are afforded the opportunity on our campuses to exercise freedom of speech, freedom of expression and the right to peaceably assemble.
Event! Voter Registration & Hamilton Sing-Along:
ASG and Diversity Programming Board are hosting a voter registration event at RWC, with a film screening of Hamilton: The Musical! Attendees are encouraged to sing along! Join us for snacks, songs and civic engagement! Stop by and check your voter registration and celebrate our country’s founding.
Event Details
- Date: April 27, 2006
- Time: Noon to 3 p.m.
- Locations: RWC Student Center (Fireplace Lounge)
Additional Voter Resources:
- Oregon Secretary of State: Voting in Oregon
- Military and Overseas Voters
- Oregon Primary: Important Election Dates
For More Information:
Contact Lucia Bartscher, chair of the Diversity Programming Board, at 541-956-7124.
* A “public employee” includes public officials who are not elected, whether they are paid or unpaid.