Connected Organization: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Meaning

Definition & Meaning

A connected organization refers to any entity that is not classified as a political committee but plays a role in establishing, managing, or providing financial support to a political committee. This can include various types of organizations that engage in political activities without being formally designated as political committees themselves.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A nonprofit organization that raises funds to support candidates for local office, without being formally registered as a political committee, qualifies as a connected organization.

Example 2: A business group that provides resources and funding to a political action committee (PAC) is also considered a connected organization. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Regulations
California Requires additional disclosures for connected organizations.
Texas Has specific limits on contributions from connected organizations to political committees.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Political Committee An organization formed to support or oppose candidates or political parties. Connected organizations are not formally designated as political committees.
Political Action Committee (PAC) A type of political committee that raises and spends money to elect or defeat candidates. PACs are a subset of connected organizations but have specific registration and reporting requirements.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe your organization may be classified as a connected organization, consider the following steps:

  • Review your organization's activities to determine if they align with the definition of a connected organization.
  • Consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance with campaign finance laws.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help manage your organization's political activities.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees Varies by state and specific legal requirements.
Jurisdiction Federal and state election laws.
Possible Penalties Fines for non-compliance with campaign finance regulations.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A connected organization is an entity that supports a political committee without being classified as one itself.