Late last year, the Postal Service implemented changes to its Administrative Support Manual (ASM Section 36), to adopt new guidelines for the use of web-based communications, often referred to as “social media.” The guidelines state several policies with which all Mail Handlers should be familiar:
1. When Mail Handlers or other postal employees use social media on their own time, using their own equipment, and in a personal capacity, they may not claim to speak for or on behalf of the Postal Service.
2. All uses of social media related to the conduct of official postal business requires the consent of management.
3. When postal employees use social media in their official capacity, they are subject to a series of guidelines that restrict their free speech, as they must comply with all legal requirements; remain “respectful” to others; and avoid “[p]ersonal attacks, accusations, threats, or discriminatory comments.”
4. Violations of these policies or guidelines may result in disciplinary action.
At the same time, Mail Handlers may continue to speak freely when off-the-clock and when not using USPS equipment, provided that they are not acting in an official capacity and do not claim to speak for or on behalf of the Postal Service. This allows for open and robust debate on the various political and social issues of the day, so long as the employee is acting in his or her personal capacity. This includes the ability to attend, and participate in, public meetings regarding closings, consolidations, and/or service standard changes.
Please contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
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