What is an Independent Committee?

An Independent Committee is one that makes “independent expenditures ^[1]”.  An independent expenditure is an expenditure for a communication which expressly advocates the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate, but which is made independently of any candidate’s campaign. An expenditure is “independent” only if it meets certain conditions; It cannot be made with the cooperation or consent of, or in consultation with, or at the  request or suggestion of any candidate or any of his or her agents or authorized committees. An expenditure which does not meet the above criteria for independence is considered a contribution which is subject to limits.

When does an Independent Committee have to register in Georgia?

Independent Committees must register with the Commission prior to collecting any contributions or making any expenditures.

Forms and Responsibilities for Independent Committees

• File Form RO (Registration Form for a Campaign Committee Other than Candidate) to begin Independent Committee ^[2]
• PIN Application for e-filing CCDR (Non Candidate Committee) ^[2]
• Independent Committee must file Campaign Contribution Disclosure Reports (CCDR) according to the schedule below:

Filing Schedule for Independent Committees

• Independent Committee must file reports on the first day of each of the two calendar months preceding any such election; (2 filings)
• Independent Committee must file report two weeks before the election (1 report)
• If the Independent Committee receives any contribution or makes any expenditure of more than $1,000.00 after filing the two-week report but before the election, must file report disclosing this within two business days on the Two Business Day Report (TBD) form.
• Independent Committee must file final report before December 31 of the election year
• Independent committee shall file supplemental reports on June 30 and December 31 of each year that such independent committee continues to accept contributions or make expenditures.