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NEA Supports Campaign Finance Reform Bill

Washington, D.C. - The National Education Association (NEA) announced its support for a bipartisan House bill today that helps ensure a level playing field for those who cannot afford to make large campaign contributions. The bill, co-sponsored by Republican Rep. Bob Ney of Ohio and Democrat Albert Wynn of Maryland, would allow average working Americans to participate in the political process by empowering small donor Political Action Committees. "This bill is welcome news for democracy and public confidence in the political process," said NEA President Bob Chase.

Ney-Wynn bill rejects provisions included in the Senate-passed bill that increase hard money contributions for wealthy individuals, but deny the same opportunities for small-donor PACs. "The Senate bill tips the scale of influence toward wealthy individuals, while hindering those with fewer financial resources," said Chase. "The Ney-Wynn bill would create a more level playing field and empower lower and middle-income citizens, such as teachers, custodians, bus drivers, and other educators."

NEA does not use membership dues money for contributions to political parties and candidates, and relies on voluntary donations from members to its Political Action Committee - the NEA Fund for Children and Public Education. By pooling their resources into the NEA Fund for Children and Public Education, NEA members can compete on a level playing field with wealthier interests and play an active and effective role in advancing the cause of public education. NEA's PAC is funded entirely by voluntary contributions and is fully reported to the FEC.

As a small donor PAC, NEA supports important reforms to campaign finance that are currently under consideration, including limits on "soft money," and full disclosure of contributions and spending. "We believe these measures will make the federal election system more accountable and less subject to manipulation through large, unregulated soft money contributions," said Chase.