RISAA Newsletter [Legislative Committee: November, 2002]

Following is a short explanation of what the RISAA Political Action Committee (PAC) is, and most importantly, is not, as there is seems to be concern among our members on this subject.

Why is RISAA forming a PAC?

One of the missions of RISAA is to represent the concerns of the recreational community on regulatory and legislative issues. That means we will, like it or not, have to deal with elected officials. We know from experience that there are a number of legislators who have worked hard on our behalf and supported RISAA initiatives.

We also have planned to introduce legislation next year, and will continue to need the support
of many legislators to meet our goals.

Before the PAC, we had no way of legally supporting these legislators or attending fund-raising activities for candidates. It is important that legislators understand who we are and, more importantly, the concerns of our members firsthand. If we don’t advance our own causes, no one will do it for us. I believe Jim Donofrio of the RFA says it best when he pointed out that “Democracy is not a spectator sport.” To be effective, we must participate.

PURPOSE

The official stated purpose of the PAC:

To further the interests of recreational saltwater anglers.

GOALS

The official stated goals of the PAC:

- To improve and maintain public access to the shoreline
- To ensure the conservation of marine resources
- To protect the rights, traditions and future of recreational anglers

Will my RISAA dues money go to the PAC?

NO! Under no circumstances will any annual dues money or any other contribution made to the club be used for the PAC. Indeed, it would be a violation of state election laws for any money from RISAA to be used for PAC purposes.

Where will the PAC get its funding?

All money received by the PAC must come from individual donors. No money can be accepted from any organization or business interest.

No affiliate clubs can donate to the PAC from their treasurery.

The PAC will have an independent treasurer and its own bank account. Contributions are welcome from all members and members of affiliates.

You must provide your name and address for the PAC records for any donation of cash or check.

Who decides how PAC contributions are distributed?

A three-step process is required before ANY PAC funds can be distributed.

The Legislative Committee has authorized a smaller PAC Subcommittee to make recommendations on what candidates it feels should be supported.

This PAC Subcommittee then reports to the full Legislative Committee, which reviews the recommendations.

Members of the Legislative Committee can also submit candidate’s names to the subcommittee for consideration.

If the Legislative Committee agrees on candidates to support, that recommendation is forwarded to the RISAA Board of Directors who have the final vote on any PAC donations.

Expenditures on behalf of any candidates will be reported to the membership.

Why is the Legislative Committee directing the PAC?

The Legislative Committee represents not only RISAA membership, but also each affiliate club.
Each affiliate club has a representative on the Legislative Committee and is supposed to attend meetings. Each affiliate representative has an equal voice and vote. This is so we can represent the broadest possible spectrum of opinions and concerns of all salt water recreational fishing to the best of our abilities.

How can I get involved?

PAC issues will be a regular part of the Legislative Committee's agenda. All members are welcome to attend. You may also forward your comments or suggestions to myself or any board member for consideration by the committee.

I hope this addresses any concerns you may have had. If you have questions or comments please give me a call or e-mail me, and I will try my best to get answer you.