The American Veterinary Medical Association's Political Action Committee (AVMAPAC) may be one of the AVMA's most important political tools, in terms of its impact on veterinary medicine, but many members still have questions about it. Here are some of the most common questions about the program:

Q:

Is AVMAPAC politically neutral?

A:

AVMAPAC is non-partisan. Candidates receive contributions based on our criteria, not party affiliation.

Q:

What is the minimum contribution amount?

A:

The power of any PAC is to some degree a function of the amount of money it has to distribute. We encourage donations of $100 or more, but any amount is welcomed. In fact, if every member donated only $25, we could raise almost $4 million each election cycle (2 years).

Q:

How does the AVMAPAC affect me?

A:

AVMAPAC donations help us get our message across. AVMA-GRD lobbies on small business/tax issues, animal health/welfare, public health, appropriations, student loan forgiveness, research, veterinary school and education, food safety, homeland security, pharmaceuticals, drug compounding, and environmental issues.

Q:

What do I receive for my contribution?

A:

Persons making contributions to AVMAPAC will be a part of the political process by enabling the AVMA to "weigh in" on legislation affecting the veterinary profession.

Q:

Why is it important for me as a veterinarian to contribute to the PAC?

A:

Advocacy is ranked as one of the most important issues for the AVMA by our members. As veterinarians, we all have a stake in the future of the profession and with so many legislative and regulatory issues affecting our profession, we need to speak up and get our message heard on Capitol Hill.

Q:

Who decides to whom the contributions are given?

A:

AVMAPAC is operated by a Policy Board comprised of AVMA members from across the nation. The AVMAPAC Policy Board considers a variety of criteria, including prior support of the AVMA's legislative agenda, accessibility to AVMA members and staff, and Congressional committee assignment.

Q:

Can I recommend candidate for an AVMAPAC contributions?

A:

Yes, just ask for a Contribution Request Form and return it to the GRD. Contact AVMAPAC/Grassroots Manager Christine Baker (202-289-3206 or cbaker@avma.org) to request a form.

Q:

Can I direct my PAC contribution to be given to a specific candidate?

A:

No. The AVMAPAC Policy Board decides which candidates receive contributions.

Q:

Where do my PAC dollars go?

A:

One hundred percent of your personal AVMAPAC contributions go to candidates for U.S. House and Senate. Corporate contributions can only be used for administrative costs.

Q:

How can I be sure that my AVMAPAC donation is being used in an ethical manner?

A:

AVMAPAC must follow strict rules established by the Federal Election Committee (FEC). AVMAPAC files quarterly reports with the FEC, which can be found on the FEC's Web site at http://www.fec.gov/.