ABOUT YOUR PAC FUND

 Approximately twenty years ago your OAW Executive Board, with the assistance of our Legislative Committee, determined it necessary to make contributions to people running for legislative office. We chose the legislators we contributed to with the advice of our lobbyist.

 Recipients of our contributions were legislators running for re-election, while others were newcomers. We looked for legislators who previously served on health care committees or worked with committees that affected professional licensing through the Department of Health.  

By making contributions we hoped to gain greater recognition so these legislators would know who opticians were and what services we provided to the public.

 However, we learned very quickly, and correctly so, that people running for political office are very particular how they receive donations and who the money comes from. It was then suggested that we form a Political Action Committee that would have Public Disclosure registered with the State of Washington. 

 The Public Disclosure Office maintains records of who we make contributions to and they also record who makes donations to our PAC fund (such as private individuals, corporations, or out of state interests to name a few).

 Because the PAC fund is registered with the State of Washington, it is maintained as its own entity. It is not part of the OAW budget.

 Please make an effort individually or through your local chapters to become more politically active. Know who your legislators are!! Respond to their inquiries or attend a local fund raiser to show your support.

 The Legislative Committee

Diane Charles and John Wickman

OAW Office / Legislation / Education / Convention / Membership