NRLCA PAC - Importance of Political Action Committee for Rural Carriers

NRLCA PAC What is it and why should I donate?

What is PAC? PAC, which stands for Political Action Committee, is a committee which collects voluntary contributions from members of a group (NRLCA). It distributes funds to candidates for federal offices and makes a report on its activities. PAC is important because it accumulates small contributions into a central account so that larger contributions can be made to a candidate for Congress. Therefore, each contribution has increased importance to the candidate.

Why does NRLCA have a PAC? Our PAC is a lobbying tool. It is something which is of assistance to the National Office in working for legislation which helps rural carriers and against legislation that may be detrimental to rural carriers.

Is PAC used to buy votes? NO! PAC helps our organization get access to the legislators that need to hear our story.

How does PAC help us? PAC helps because candidates must raise money to conduct a campaign for election. They are compelled to ask people for assistance. After they have asked us for assistance with their campaigns, it then becomes easier for us to get them to listen to us when we have an issue of concern. So, the short answer is that PAC helps us get legislators to listen.

Does this mean they will vote our way? Not necessarily, but without PAC and lobbying efforts, a legislator may not be well informed on an issue and inadvertently vote against us. It is the job of the Governmental Affairs department at the National Office to make sure the legislators stay well informed.

Why do we need to ensure that we are being heard? The job of a Congressman or Senator is complex. There are over 30,000 registered lobbyists vying for his attention at all times. He may not intend to cast a vote which would do us harm, but if we don t tell him our story, it could happen.

What criteria are used for contributions? We evaluate voting records of incumbents and ask questions to challengers concerning our issues. We also look at committee assignments and we look to see if we are able to establish communication. Additionally, we see what type of relationship we have had with the legislator in the past.

How has PAC worked for us? It is only a tool, but we have attempted to use it well. In the past, it has helped fight off retirement cuts, reverse IRS retroactive audits and protect six- day delivery.

Who does the NRLCA-PAC support? The NRLCA-PAC plays a key role in representing our interests on Capitol Hill by supporting key Senators and Representatives. NRLCA-PAC financially supports: Members who are friendly to our positions Legislators who serve on committees with jurisdiction over issues important to NRLCA Congressional candidates who could support our causes, if elected

The money contributed to NRLCA-PAC aids in each Member's election campaign committee. Campaigns, in turn, use the money to send mass mailings, purchased TV and radio ads, fund "Get Out the Vote" efforts, and support their colleague's campaign efforts.

Why Give to PAC? The NRLCA-PAC helps make the lives of Rural Letter Carriers better. In the past, PAC contributions successfully aided in the defeat of efforts to restrict collective bargaining, made sure single piece parcels remained in the market dominant category, and scuttled anti-labor amendments. To ensure that our voices are heard from now through the next election, NRLCA- PAC must begin preparing now. If you are already a PAC member, thank you for your contribution and please keep contributing. If you are not yet a PAC member and would like to be, or would like more information on PAC, please feel free to contact your state PAC Chair.