FAQS

PACs are simply a group of like-minded individuals who pool their resources to achieve a common goal. BoatPAC supports candidates for political office who promote the basic philosophy and values on the issues that impact the recreational boating industry as a whole. Through BoatPAC, candidates know what issues are important to the recreational boating industry. When critical votes or issues arise lawmakers will vote their convictions. BoatPAC exists to help educate and assist candidates.

The political process is constantly evolving and BoatPAC allows the recreational boating industry to speak with one clear voice to candidates. This way candidates will understand what issues are important to recreational boating. This is something your singular personal contribution may not achieve.

Whether you’re an advocacy pro or just getting started, political and governmental decisions will affect you and your company. Government decisions can impact how your company can run and also impact the viability of boating as a recreational option for many of your consumers. It is vitally important to understand that BoatPAC represents the interests we all share in the boating industry.

If you decide not to participate, don’t be surprised when decisions you don’t like are made by lawmakers. By supporting BoatPAC you will be joining with fellow members of the recreational boating community in promoting our shared political goals.

BoatPAC supports our pro-boating champions in the House and the Senate. Many recipients are members of the Congressional Boating Caucus, a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators and Representatives formed in 1989 to advocate for the interests of the recreational boating industry. Click here to find a comprehensive list of Boating Caucus members.

BoatPAC contributors receive regular communications from MRAA and NMMA staff about government issues impacting our industry. You will also have access to the BoatPAC website that will keep you informed about who BoatPAC is contributing to and pertinent fundraising events.

Individuals may contribute up to $2,500 to federal candidates in any one election (primary, general, and run-off). In contrast, individuals may contribute up to $5,000 per year to a political action committee like BoatPAC. By contributing to BoatPAC your political donation will have a greater impact.

In federal elections BoatPAC can contribute up to $5,000 per election (primary, general, and run-off) per candidate. There is no aggregate limit for BoatPAC’s contribution to all federal candidates in one calendar year.

Not exactly. In 2010 the Supreme Court issued a decision called Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. The decision legalizes an organizations ability to make independent expenditures to advocate the election or defeat of a candidate. It does not allow organizations to make contributions directly to candidates or candidate committees.

BoatPAC remains one of the most valuable tools we have to create ongoing relationships with lawmakers. Through these relationships we can share our views and concerns on issues facing the boating industry. This is only made possible by a contribution from BoatPAC to that candidate or candidate committee.

No. FEC rules prevent corporations from giving directly to political action committees. Only individuals may contribute to BoatPAC.