What are the rules regarding political action committees?
Political Action Committees (PACs) are organized groups of individuals who come together to raise money for political campaigns in the state of Texas. PACs are regulated by the Texas Election Code. In order for a PAC to legally receive or spend money, the organization and its members must register with the Texas Ethics Commission. The PAC must offer its members the ability to join, provide its members with the information they need to make informed decisions, and establish and enforce its own rules and procedures. PACs also must keep records of all their activities and disclosure reports. PACs can accept contributions from individuals and organizations, but cannot accept contributions from unions, corporations, or government entities. PACs must also report to the Texas Ethics Commission any income exceeding $500 or any transfers of funds from one PAC to another. PACs cannot make contributions to candidates or political committees, spend funds to support or oppose a candidate or measure, or use funds for personal gain. They also cannot pay to broadcast or place political advertising or purchase a political opinion survey. PACs can engage in advocacy and educational activities, such as providing information about a particular candidate or issue; however, these activities cannot be used to influence an election outcome. Additionally, PACs must comply with all other state and federal election laws and regulations.
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