Special rules apply to organizations wishing to advertise for political candidates and ballot issues. Because of their relative independence, Voluntary Student Organizations (VSOs) have more flexibility than University departments and Sponsored Student Organizations (SSOs).

University Departments
University departments may not use University funds or other University resources to support or oppose political candidates or to seek the qualification, passage, or defeat of a ballot initiative.  In addition, federal law limits the amount of lobbying activity in which the University may lawfully engage, so any proposed lobbying efforts on behalf of the University must be coordinated with, and approved by, the Office of the Vice President for Government Relations (OVPGR).  More information regarding the political activity requirements as applied to student organizations, including SSO- and VSO-specific FAQs, is available at: http://studentorgs.umich.edu/download/Issues_Packet9-28-06.pdf (beginning around page 13).

Sponsored Student Organizations (SSOs)
Because SSOs are treated as units of the university, those organizations are required to comply with the same requirements that would apply to the University itself.  As such, SSOs may not use University funds or other University resources to endorse or oppose political candidates or ballot initiatives.  SSOs are likewise subject to the lobbying limitations noted above, and any proposed lobbying efforts should first be cleared with the SSO’s sponsor and with the Office of the Vice President for Government Relations. 

MSA is its own 501(c)(3), so it has its own ability to lobby, but it likewise must coordinate with its tax advisor/OVPGR, and is not permitted to fund the lobbying activities of other student organizations.

Voluntary Student Organizations (VSOs)
VSOs may purchase SORC advertising space for candidate or ballot proposal endorsements or oppositions, including with respect to MSA elections, or to encourage lobbying efforts, provided that the following conditions are met:

• The purchase must be made with non-University funds and must not otherwise involve University resources.
• The VSO must clearly identify itself as the “speaker” in the advertising materials and must not state or imply in any way that it is representing the official views of the University.
• The VSO must otherwise comply with all SORC eligibility requirements. 

Regardless of organization status (department, SSO, or VSO), these eligibility & content requirements apply. 

If you have questions, please consult the SORC manager in advance for best results.