Political Action Committee Frequently Asked Questions

See the difference you can make!

Q: Why do I need to be involved in Political Action?

A: With or without credit union involvement, there will be elections. Those elected will determine the fate of the credit union movement. Either we are involved in the process and shape the outcome, or we will let bankers and other interests do it for us. 

Q: What does political action do for my credit union? 

A: Political action works to defeat adverse legislation while supporting pro-active initiatives that protect our cooperative structure and address problems facing credit unions and their members.  One example of a pro-active initiative is House Bill 81, the Credit Union Member Service Powers Bill, which was signed into law by Ohio Governor Bob Taft on Jan. 10 -- the first time in 18 years that the Ohio Credit Union Act has been updated. The includes provisions that benefit state and federal-chartered credit union, such as allowing guardianship accounts, probate accounts, and exemptions from the Consumer Sales Practices Act and the Retail Installment Sales Act. House Bill 81 includes additional provisions further benefiting state-chartered credit unions. View a complete list of House Bill 81 provisions.

Q: Does my contribution to the PAC really make a difference?

A: Consider it an investment in your credit union’s future.  Your PAC dollars support legislators who support credit unions and legislation affecting credit unions.  

Q: How is my money spent?
A: Your contribution supports candidates who:
 - Show a commitment to understanding credit unions and the challenges facing them.
- Have a proven voting record and position on issues impacting credit unions.
- Have a committee assignment or leadership role.

Q: Why can’t credit unions just stay out of the political arena?

A: Whether you like it or not, you are involved in politics.  State government makes decisions every day that could potentially affect the way credit unions do business. 

Q: How much should I contribute?

A: There are 4 suggested contribution levels:

            CEO - $260

            Supervisor- $78

            Board Member - $52

            Employee - $26

Q: Can the credit union make this contribution for me?

A: No. Campaign finance law requires contributions to political action committees be personal and voluntary.  Corporate contributions can’t be accepted.