NAIL PAC FAQs
Q: What is NAIL PAC?
A: NAIL PAC is the state political voice of NRLA-NY members. It exists to strengthen and raise the profile of the NRLA-NY as a respected political force in New York state elections.
Q: What is the purpose of NAIL PAC?
A: NAIL PAC works to support the election of individuals for statewide and state legislative office. All contributions stay in New York and go to candidates and legislators who understand the issues affecting the lumber and building materials (LBM) industry.
Q: Who does NAIL PAC support?
A: NAIL PAC supports candidates from all political parties so long as they support our issues and will work in tandem with NRLA-NY.
Q: Why do we need a LBM industry PAC in New York?
A: Having a PAC assists LBM dealers and associated companies in organizing themselves for more effective political action and maximizes the visibility of the LBM industry in the state Legislature.
Q: How does NAIL PAC support candidates for state office?
A: Mostly financial contributions, but members and our government affairs team also meet with candidates to educate them on the issues in our industry.
Q: Who directs the activities of the NAIL PAC?
A:A body of Trustees consisting of NRLA-NY legislative committee members.
Q: How do NAIL PAC Trustees make decisions regarding donations?
A: Trustees consider factors such as the legislators’ committee position, voting records on LBM issues, and responsiveness to the LBM industry when making donation decisions.
Q: Who can donate to NAIL PAC?
A:In New York, individuals and businesses can make contributions to PACs.
- Individuals can give an unlimited amount of money to a PAC.
- Businesses/LLCs/PLLCs can give $5,000 in the aggregate to candidates and PACs in a calendar year. LLCs and PLLCs must also disclose the names and share percentage of all individuals who own the company.
Q: How can I make my donation?
A: You can write a check, payable to NRLA-NY NAILPAC, and mail to:
Northeastern Retail Lumber Association
Attn: Finance
585 N. Greenbush Road
Rensselaer, NY 12144
Q: Isn't it better for me to contribute to a political candidate on my own?
A: If possible, we urge you to do both. Donating to a legislator at a local event enables you to make a personal connection with your local legislator and your specific business operations. A donation to the PAC provides our association with a collective voice that enables us to support individual legislators who have taken positions and actions that have benefited the entire state-wide membership.
Q: What if I don't want to support the other party?
A: NAIL PAC’s only purpose is to help elect candidates who will help the industry. Party affiliation is not considered by the Trustees when making funding decisions. Our association has been fortunate to have legislators on both side of the political aisle who have visited our businesses and successfully supported many important issues of interest to NRLA-NY members.