Federal Election Commission March 20, 2006 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The Federal Election Commission is revising its definitions of the terms ``to solicit'' and ``to direct'' for its regulations on raising and spending Federal and non-Federal funds. The new definition of ``to solicit'' encompasses written and oral communications that, construed as reasonably understood in the context in which they are made, contain a clear message asking, requesting, or recommending, explicitly or implicitly, that another person make a contribution, donation, transfer of funds, or otherwise provide something of value. Mere statements of political support and mere guidance as to the application of the law are not included. The revised definition also contains a list of examples, to provide practical guidance to Federal candidates, officeholders, political committee officials, and others. The new definition of ``to direct'' focuses on guidance provided directly or indirectly to a person who has expressed an intent to make a contribution, donation, or transfer of funds. Further information is provided in the supplementary information that follows.