Bill would bar use of state computers for influencing votes

Teachers and other school officials would be barred from using state equipment to promote the passage or defeat of legislation under a bill to be introduced in the House this week.

Rep. Mark Hamilton, R-Cumming, has prepared House Bill 228, which would make it illegal for any public employee to use any computer, computer system or network to influence the outcome of legislation. While the measure would apply to any state employee, except for those registered as lobbyists or those specifically asked for information, the bill appears aimed largely at schools.

The bill also says e-mail addresses of parents of students would only be used for school-related issues and not for promoting the passage or defeat of legislation.