Paper mailings to end January 1

Beginning January 1, 2007, the FEC will send all courtesy materials to committees exclusively by electronic mail. Reporting reminders and mailings concerning changes in the law will no longer be sent to committees by U.S. mail. As a result, it is important that every committee update its Statement of Organization (FEC Form 1) to disclose a current email address.

Most committees registered with the FEC are already required to disclose an email address on Form 1. Under 11 CFR 102.2(a)(1)(vii) and (viii), all mandatory electronic filers and the principal campaign committees of House and Senate candidates must provide an email address.

The Commission’s decision to switch from paper to electronic mail will obviously improve the timeliness of its communications with committees, but that is only one of the advantages. Email will also offer opportunities for new types of communications and will simplify the process of providing information tailored specifically to each committee’s needs, all while saving tax dollars.

The Commission recognizes that disclosing a personal email address on a public document may raise privacy concerns. For that reason, committees may wish to create a separate email account intended solely for this purpose. As the agency begins to communicate with committees electronically, keeping that email address current will be essential. Keep watching for more information about this exciting new program and be sure to keep your committee’s email address current on your Form 1. (The form is available from the Commission or on its website).