WHAT IS AN INDEPENDENT COMMITTEE?
An Independent Committee means any committee, club, association, partnership, corporation, labor union, or other group of persons, other than a campaign committee, political party, or political action committee, which receives donations during a calendar year from persons who are members or supporters of the committee and which expends such funds either for the purpose of affecting the outcome of an election for any elected office or to advocate the election or defeat of any particular candidate.
WHAT IS AN INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURE?
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 candidates campaign. An expenditure is “independent” only if it meets certain conditions. It must not 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.
WHERE DOES AN INDEPENDENT COMMITTEE HAVE TO REGISTER IN GEORGIA?
Independent Committees must register through our e-Filing System.
WHAT ARE TWO BUSINESS DAY REPORTS?
Within the two-week period prior to the date of such election, the independent committee shall report within two business days any contributions or expenditure of more than $1,000.00
WHEN DOES AN INDEPENDENT COMMITTEE FILE?
- 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).
- 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.