Sec. 143.086. POLITICAL ACTIVITIES. (a) While in uniform or on active duty, a fire fighter or police officer may not take an active part in another person's political campaign for an elective position of the municipality.
(b) For the purposes of this section, a person takes an active part in a political campaign if the person:
(1) makes a political speech;
(2) distributes a card or other political literature;
(3) writes a letter;
(4) signs a petition;
(5) actively and openly solicits votes; or
(6) makes public derogatory remarks about a candidate for an elective position of the municipality.
(c) A fire fighter or police officer may not be required to contribute to a political fund or to render a political service to a person or party. A fire fighter or police officer may not be removed, reduced in classification or salary, or otherwise prejudiced for refusing to contribute to a political fund or to render a political service.
(d) A municipal official who attempts to violate Subsection (c) violates this chapter.
(e) Except as expressly provided by this section, the commission or the municipality's governing body may not restrict a fire fighter's or police officer's right to engage in a political activity.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 149, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Structure Texas Statutes
Title 5 - Matters Affecting Public Officers and Employees
Subtitle A - Municipal Officers and Employees
Chapter 143 - Municipal Civil Service for Firefighters and Police Officers
Subchapter F. Miscellaneous Provisions
Section 143.081. Determination of Physical and Mental Fitness
Section 143.082. Efficiency Reports
Section 143.083. Emergency Appointment of Temporary Fire Fighters and Police Officers
Section 143.085. Force Reduction and Reinstatement List
Section 143.086. Political Activities
Section 143.087. Strike Prohibition
Section 143.088. Unlawful Resignation or Retirement