Political Action Committees (PAC's) have been a major part of the American political process for more than 30 years. Associations, corporations, trade groups, and other organizations establish PAC's in order to raise funds that are used to contribute money or other goods and services to a political campaign committee or political party.
The Illinois Architects Political Action Committee is the registered political action committee of AIA Illinois. IAPAC contributes to Republican and Democratic candidates for the Illinois House of Representatives, Illinois Senate, and Constitutional Officers. During the 2005-06 election cycle, IAPAC contributed to 60 state political candidates and officeholders. IAPAC reports its activities to the Illinois State Board of Elections on a regular basis, as required by law.
AIA members, individuals, and corporations can make voluntary contributions to IAPAC.
As a key component of the AIA Illinois issue advocacy program, IAPAC allows the AIA to support political candidates who support architects, AIA Illinois public policies, and other issues that affect architect's values and their businesses. Contributions to IAPAC help increase the AIA Illinois voice with members of the legislature and other organizations.
Campaigns receive support from IAPAC based on analysis of key races and other factors influencing the most effective allocation of funds. Contributions are not based on party or geography but on their stance on the issues.
State law prohibits the AIA from using money from membership dues to make political contributions to state candidates. All PAC contributions are voluntary.
