FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BAPAC
What is BAPAC?
The acronym "BAPAC" stands for the "Builders' Association Political Action Committee" which is a bipartisan, multi-candidate "state and local" political action committee affiliated with the Builders' Association and the Kansas City Chapter, AGC. BAPAC is funded by voluntary donations from the members of the Builders' Association and AGC. Both personal and corporate contributions, in any amount, may be made to BAPAC.
Who administers BAPAC?
The Builders’ Association PAC Committee administers BAPAC. The Committee is made up of Builders' and AGC members appointed by the Chairman of the Board according to the by-laws of the Association. Members of the PAC Committee plan for election-year activities, accept members' suggestions regarding worthy candidates, select candidates to receive contributions, and oversee compliance with legal requirements. The Association staff assists the Committee with these responsibilities.
Why should you be concerned about state and local governments?
Your company is often directly affected by legislative and administrative decisions made by state and local officials. Government policy impacts not only contractors, but also suppliers and other businesses providing services to the construction industry. One only has to review the Association's Legislative Bulletins to see the wide array of bills which directly affect your business, either positively or negatively. We work to see that positive legislation is passed and harmful legislation doesn’t become law.
Why should you contribute to BAPAC when you could contribute to candidates directly?
For one thing, there is strength in numbers. Members of the Association can make contributions to a significant number of candidates by pooling their money through BAPAC. Also, contributions from BAPAC are directly identifiable with the Builders' Association and AGC and with our legislative staff members who monitor legislation in Jefferson City and Topeka on a daily basis and testify before legislative committees on your behalf.
Is it necessary that the Association have a PAC of its own?
It definitely is necessary to have a PAC. As long as PACs are a political reality, we need one too. Many times organizations can work together on mutually beneficial legislation. Having a PAC makes the Builders' and AGC full partners in such coalitions. However, there are also instances when the interests of the Association conflict with those of other organizations. In order to compete legislatively with other organizations, which have PACs, the Association needs a political action committee of its own.
(over)
-2-
Who does BAPAC support and why?
The PAC Committee contributes BAPAC funds to qualified candidates from both major parties. After review of all the candidates' qualifications, your Association PAC supports those individuals who are most knowledgeable and sensitive to the needs of the construction industry regardless of party affiliation. Past voting records help the Committee select candidates with positive positions on construction issues. Candidates are also supported because they are in a position to play key roles in future legislation.
Contributions from BAPAC have two purposes:
· To financially support the election of candidates who have an interest in the well-being of the building construction industry; and
· To facilitate the access of the Association's representatives to key legislative leaders.
Have BAPAC contributions gone to candidates who are in a position to help?
Members’ voluntary contributions to BAPAC have historically been put to extremely good use. During the period between 1980 and 2006, 90 percent of BAPAC's contributions were made to Missouri and Kansas candidates who were subsequently elected to state or local office.
Does a BAPAC contribution assure a legislator's vote?
No, and it shouldn't. Certainly the modest contributions made by the Builders' Association PAC do not unduly influence anyone. However, elected officials will be more likely to recognize the Association and its representatives and allow us to explain our position on the issues at hand before deciding how to vote.
Will the Association be effective on future issues of importance?
Yes, it will. The Association has lobbied successfully on state and local legislative issues over the years with a relatively modest PAC budget. With increased financial support from members like you the Association can be even more effective in the future. Your financial support is essential to the continued success of the Association's legislative efforts. You are strongly encouraged to support your business and your industry with a financial donation to BAPAC on an annual basis. Please make it a part of your business plan.