Recyclers News Press
Page 21
Our Association Needs Your Help!
Political Action Committee (PAC)
A political action committee (PAC) is an organization
that campaigns for political candidates or legislation.
The mission of the Iowa Auto Recyclers PAC is to
educate lawmakers on the important issues con-
fronted by professional automotive recyclers.
How does a PAC work for you?
IAR is just one of
many groups vying for the attention of lawmakers and
candidates. In recent years, IAR has made great pro-
gress in reaching out to the Iowa Legislature by edu-
cating them on the auto recycling industry.
The association follows a strategic plan that concen-
trates on those lawmakers who are members of the
important transportation and business committees.
A key element of those activities is supported by
the IAR PAC. In conjunction with our lobbying and
grass-roots efforts, the IAR PAC raises the visibility
of recyclers' views, interests and concerns among
influential lawmakers. With increased visibility, IAR
has a greater opportunity to educate lawmakers on
issues important to auto recyclers and a greater op-
portunity to impact what happens at the statehouse.
How do politicians use PAC money?
Politicians rely on money contributed by individuals
and PACs for campaign funds. PAC contributions are
used to pay for campaign staff, commercials, signs,
handouts, etc. Campaign money is heavily regulated
by the Iowa Ethics Campaign and Disclosure Board.
The importance of a strong PAC
Every year, special interest groups contribute millions
of dollars from PACs to politicians and political par-
ties. In fact, when it comes to politics, the greatest
advantage that insurance corporations have had over
small-business recyclers is the amount of money
they contribute to political campaigns. They are well-
funded and have agendas that are often counter to
the interests of IAR members.
It is important that our PAC have the resources avail-
able to help counter the message of those other
groups. By combining the individual contributions of
IAR members in the PAC, the association is able to
create increased awareness of our concerns and en-
sure that they get the attention they deserve.
By federal law, a PAC is not allowed to accept funding
from a trade association. The PAC must raise its
funds separately from members. One hundred per-
cent of contributions go directly to candidates' cam-
paign to promote the visibility of our issues.
Contributions to the PAC are completely volun-
tary. Members are free to contribute any amount or
no amount without reprisal. IAR PAC uses member
donations to help elect individuals who will under-
stand and support IAR's goals.
