NACSPAC

Established in 1979 by NACS as the entity through which the association can legally contribute funds to political candidates supportive of our industry's issues. Like all PACS, NACSPAC operates under strict contribution limits and reporting requirements set by federal law.

PACs have been around since 1944, when the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) formed the first PAC to raise money for the re-election of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The PAC's money came from voluntary contributions from union members, rather than from union treasuries, to avoid violating federal laws, which forbade unions from contributing to federal candidates.

How PACs Work

PACs are regulated entities that can make limited contributions to federal candidates, political parties and other PACS. PACs can give $5,000 to a candidate per election (primary, general or special election) and they can also give up to $15,000 annually to any national party and $5,000 annually to any other PAC.

It is generally agreed that the starting point for a Senatorial election is $5 million and a House election is $1 million. A candidate wishing to get involved in politics at a national level quite obviously has to have access to large sums of money.

There is no clear evidence that PACs directly influence the voting behavior of those they help get elected. How a representative votes on an issue should be grounded on sound public policy and constituent support of the position. The most important role that PAC contributions play is to enhance access to candidates for federal office.

How You Can Help

As a concerned member of the convenience and fuel retailing community, there are several ways to engage with and support the industry:

• Become a Friend of NACS: An individual can become more engaged in NACS activities by becoming a Friend of NACS. There are no membership dues associated with becoming a Friend of NACS.
• Attend NACS Day on the Hill: Meet with members of Congress and their staff to share how federal policies impact your business and community. NACS will schedule your meetings for you, guide you through the issues and process, and help you maximize your influence. This isa great opportunity to get involved and make a difference!
• Write a letter to Congress: There is nothing more influential in the eyes of lawmakers than communication from a concerned constituent. NACS' Grassroots programs offer stools to help members connect with their lawmakers directly.
• Meet with Your Member of Congress at Home: Members of Congress spend the majority of their time in their states and districts meeting with their constituents. They want to know what is important to the people they represent. Meeting with your Member of Congress can help educate them on the role of your business in the local community and the importance of policy issues that matter to you.
• NACSPAC Company Authorization Card: NACS is required by federal law to obtain valid written authorization of its corporate members before it can solicit their stockholders and executive and administrative employees for contributions to NACSPAC. Completing this form allows NACS to communicate with eligible individuals about NACSPAC.