Washington Association of

Health Underwriters

HUPAC

What is HUPAC?

Health Underwriters Political Action Committee (HUPAC)

HUPAC is NAHU's political action committee. It is the expression of our First Amendment rights to free speech and association guaranteed under the Constitution. Such political expression has become far more than a useful option for professionals in a heavily regulated business like the health insurance industry. It has become a necessity.

HUPAC is registered with the U.S. Federal Election Commission. Since NAHU and similar organizations are prohibited from making political contributions, HUPAC was created to allow contributors to combine their financial support to a candidate to achieve maximum effect.

Why is HUPAC necessary?

Few other industries are as heavily regulated as health insurance. Therefore, your success, and that of your clients, is directly dependent upon the actions of Congress. It is absolutely critical that we help those members who are willing to consider our point of view in support of private sector health insurance.

To whom does HUPAC contribute?

HUPAC contributes to majority and minority party candidates, incumbents and challengers alike. Because it is non-partisan, it does not represent the interests of any political party.

Who can contribute to HUPAC?

Only NAHU members, their families and staff can contribute to HUPAC.

Clients of NAHU members may not contribute to HUPAC. All donations must be made by individuals--FEC regulations prohibit PAC contributions by corporations or companies.

How can I contribute to HUPAC?

You can contribute in two ways. First, HUPAC can accept contributions on a PERSONAL checking account or credit card. You can download the form for HUPAC contributions. (PDF: You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this file.) Second, contributing by bankdraft which allows you to spread your contribution across the year.

How does the HUPAC Bankdraft program work?

The bankdraft program is used successfully by other insurance industry PACs, and may be the easiest way for NAHU members to participate in HUPAC. The individual sends HUPAC a voided personal check and the completed Bankdraft Authorization Agreement found in this brochure. NAHU will arrange with the member's bank for monthly draws from that personal checking account only in the amount authorized by the contributor.

Which is better?

That depends on the individual. While we welcome financial support at any time, we strongly urge the use of bankdraft because it provides HUPAC with a steady, predictable stream of income important for planning future expenditures. It is also easier on the contributor because the money donated is small enough that it is not a deterrent to giving, but large enough that, at the end of 12 months, a $10 monthly contribution is a meaningful source of support.

How else can I contribute to HUPAC?

Typically, throughout the year HUPAC has other opportunities for giving at the Capitol Conference, Annual Convention and state chapter and association meetings. NAHU members may contribute to HUPAC at anytime.

How much can I contribute to HUPAC annually?

Under federal law, NAHU members can contribute up to $5000 annually to HUPAC.

How does HUPAC decide on contributions?

Decisions are made by vote of the HUPAC Board of Trustees, appointed by the NAHU president. Candidates for HUPAC contributions are evaluated on a variety of factors, including: recommendations from NAHU members; support of NAHU policies; accessibility to our members; willingness to learn; and congressional committee and political party responsibilities; among others.

I support my own candidates. Why should I support candidates in other states?

We encourage contributions to individual candidates. in fact, some NAHU members combine their contribution with HUPAC! Because it has a national presence, however, HUPAC is in a position to know of other opportunities where it's support can influence a campaign or meet several other objectives. Furthermore, when we give together we have a much stronger voice. Individual contributions may be forgotten, but a PAC's is large enough to be remembered.

Can HUPAC make contributions to candidates for state office?

No. Because HUPAC is registered with the Federal Election Commission, it is prohibited from making contributions to state candidates. State association PACs, however, may contribute to state candidates. If your state association is interested in starting a state PAC, call us.

What recognition does HUPAC provide For Those Who Support It?

There are five Donation levels:

Each donation level has its own distinctive label pin to designate you as a HUPAC supporter. All HUPAC donors will be listed, by donation level, in HIU magazine and in the Capitol Conference program. Special recognition will be given to members at the Presidential level.