Frequently Asked Questions About the TravelPAC

Q: What is the TravelPAC?

A: The TravelPAC is an informal organization of members who have an interest in promoting responsible government and are willing to make a personal financial contribution to the effort. The TravelPAC uses these funds to help elect qualified candidates to public office.

Political action committees (PACs) have existed since the early 1940s. The first PAC was actually called the "Political Action Committee” and was founded as a political arm of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) and it quickly became the generic term for all of its successors.  It is the chief mechanism used by candidates and officeholders to raise campaign funds.

Q: Must the contributions to the TravelPAC be from personal funds?

A: Yes. PAC funds must be personal contributions.  Corporate contributions to PACs are forbidden by state law.

Q: Are PAC funds limited in their use?

A: Yes. PAC funds may not be converted for personal use by a candidate or officeholder.

Q: Who decides which candidates receive TravelPAC contributions?

A: A board of trustees representing members governs the TravelPAC. Input is solicited from TravelPAC members.

Q: What criteria are used to determine who will receive contributions from the TravelPAC?

A: Generally, recipients of TravelPAC contributions hold favorable views on issues that affect the business interests of our members. Other factors include:

Q: How do I contribute?

A: Simply complete the contribution form (or more conveniently the monthly contribution form) indicating how much you would like to contribute, and return it, along with your form of payment, to the address shown. Or contribute online by clicking the Donate Now link on the main TravelPAC page. You will immediately be added to our roster.

Q: How much do I need to contribute to the TravelPAC?

A: There is no minimum or maximum contribution, so any amount you contribute is greatly appreciated. 

Q: Will part of my contribution go to pay for the TravelPAC’s administration expenses?

A: No. The Texas Travel Alliance covers 100% of the TravelPAC’s administrative costs so your contribution is not diluted in any way.

Q: Will deciding not to contribute to the TravelPAC affect my status within the Texas Travel Alliance?

A: No, contributions to the TravelPAC are voluntary. It is up to you to decide what to give or whether to give at all.

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

State law requires PAC’s to report the name, mailing address, occupation, and employer for each individual whose contrition exceeds $50 in total for a reporting period—calendar year. No limit exists to the amount an individual may contribute to a PAC.