When Discussions Violate the Law: Current Events and the Federal Workplace

There used to be a time when work was a respite from whatever else was going on in the world. Not anymore — and especially not in the Federal workplace. For starters, a good portion of employees are working from their homes, where many are inundated all day with news via cable networks and social media. Plus, increasing polarization over world events means strong feelings, which sometimes equates to strong language.

If you’re a Federal supervisor, EEO specialist, HR professional, or counsel, you’ve probably heard discussion in the workplace on one or more of the following topics:

• The Israel/Hamas war
• The Presidential election
• LGBTQ-related legislation in the states
• Upsetting social media posts by an employee

In this 60-minute presentation, FELTG President Deborah J. Hopkins will help you locate that mysterious line that separates what does and does not violate the law related to discussions the Federal workplace. She’ll explain how to address the employees who choose to cross that line, whether conduct violates the Hatch Act, anti-discrimination laws, agency anti-harassment policies, and more.

Learning objectives

• Identify conduct that could lead to Hatch Act violations.
• Take disciplinary action against employees for inappropriate social media posts.
• Understand which types of workplace discussions might violate Title VII.

Training time

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ET

Pricing

Early bird (register by September 24, 2024)

• $195

Standard (register September 25 – October 24, 2024)

• $250

Event FAQs

Can I attend this class using my government computer?

This event will be held on Zoom. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If, for some reason, your firewall will not allow access, you are welcome to use your personal email address to register and to attend the sessions from your personal device. Dial-in telephone access is also available.

Can I earn CLE credits for this class?

CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees. If you are seeking CLE credit, you may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. You may also request a certificate of completion, which will contain the number of training hours attended.

Can I share my access link with co-workers?

No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.

Can I register as a teleworker?

This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or attending from an agency facility.

How do I receive a group discount?

Group discounts are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals by the early bird registration deadline. The group discount must be requested in writing with registration submission via email or fax.

What are the Substitute, Cancellation, and No-show Policies for Registered Participants?

Substitutions may be made at no cost with advance notice to FELTG. We kindly request 24-hour advance notice. No substitutions will be permitted within one hour of the training start time. No cancellations are accepted within 30 days of the training start date. No cancellations are accepted on pre-paid registrations. There are no refunds for no-shows.