1205 Use of State Property

Georgia State Seal

Georgia Department of Human Services
Human Resources Policy #1205

Use of State Property

Release Date:

May 30, 2003

Revised Date:

September 17, 2025

Next Review Date:

September 16, 2027

References:

DHS Human Resources Policy #1201 — Conduct Standards and Ethics in Government

State-issued property is designated solely for work-related activities. Employees of Department of Human Services (DHS) must not misuse or allow others to misuse such property. State property includes, but is not limited to computers/tablets, DHS/State of Georgia software applications, office/mobile phones, office equipment, vehicles, furniture and all telework equipment.

Section A: Use of State Computers

  1. Displaying, transmitting, or engaging in the following types of content using state property is prohibited:

    1. Sexually-Oriented Material;

    2. Ethnic/Racial Slurs;

    3. Derogatory Jokes/Remarks;

    4. Computer Games;

    5. Inappropriate Web Searches;

    6. Harassing or Disrespectful Material.

  2. Conducting personal business or otherwise performing other employment activities using computers is prohibited.

  3. Electronic communication may be subject to the Georgia Open Records Act; therefore, all information is to be factual and appropriate.

  4. Any information stored on or exchanged using state computers is subject to inspection by management.

  5. Employees are prohibited from sharing computers or devices unless authorized by management.

  6. Employees are prohibited from downloading or installing personal software of any kind on state-issued computers.

Section B: Use of State Phones

  1. Voicemail greetings must be professional and communicate reliable, updated information.

  2. Employees are prohibited from using state-issued mobile devices for personal use.

  3. Employees are prohibited from downloading or installing personal software of any kind on state-issued mobile devices.

  4. Employees are prohibited from making or charging long-distance telephone calls to the Department, unless work-related. Local telephone calls of infrequent, short duration may be permitted. This privilege may be withdrawn if abused.

Section C: Other Equipment and Supplies

  1. Office equipment (e.g. computers, printers/copiers, etc.),

  2. Automobiles, and

  3. Supplies of all kinds.

    State employees are not covered by the Department of Administrative Services’ Liability Auto Insurance while engaging in unauthorized use of state or personal vehicles while conducting DHS business.

Section D: Misuse

  1. Employees must report suspected misuse of state property to their supervisor or designated Human Resources Representative.

  2. Employees misusing state property are subject to corrective/disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from employment.

  3. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) may investigate suspected misuse of state-issued property, which could result in law enforcement referrals for criminal prosecution.

For additional information or assistance, please contact your designated Human Resources Representative.