What is a PAC?

A Political Action Committee (PAC) is a term given to a committee organized by like-minded people, like mental health counselors, for the purpose of raising and spending money to elect and defeat candidates. PAC money comes from voluntary contributions by members. PACs represent business, labor, or ideological interests. PACs can give to a candidate or committee each election cycle (primary, general, run-off, or special). In Florida, the maximum campaign contribution per statewide candidate is $1,000. In short, PACs give professional associations a legal avenue for financially supporting candidates that will be helpful to their industry.

Why is the PAC necessary?

Elections are more expensive than ever. In addition, Florida has strict term limits. No legislator can serve for more than 8 years in the Florida House or Senate. For this reason, candidates are constantly running for office. Candidates tend to always appreciate professional the groups that helped them get elected and they never forget those that contributed to their campaigns early in their political careers.

How will my contribution be used?

FMHCA member contributions are used to elect pro-mental health counseling/health policy candidates running in the State of Florida. The FMHCA lobbyists and FMHCA leadership will thoroughly examine candidates before recommending them.  The FMHCA PAC trustees welcome suggestions from any contributing PAC member when deciding which candidates to support. 

Is the FMHCA PAC affiliated with a certain party?

The FMHCA PAC is neither a Republican nor a Democratic organization. Your contribution to the PAC will help elect candidates that are likely to support FMHCA’s priorities. FMHCA will pick candidates that have a chance to win their respective seat, regardless of political party affiliation.

What do I get for contributing?

Between 3,000 and 4,000 bills are introduced each year of the Florida Legislative Session. Elections decide who will be voting on these bills. The FMHCA PAC helps elect the people who write the laws you and your practice must live with.  The PAC provides you with the opportunity to have a collective impact on the election of officials who will shape the landscape in which your practice will thrive.

In short, if you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu…