What is CalHyPAC?

CalHyPAC is the California Dental Hygienists’ Association’s Political Action Committee, a separate entity from the CDHA. This Committee was created in 1982 and is a voluntary, non-profit, political advocacy committee. CalHyPAC is an essential part of CDHA’s government affairs program.

Link to CalHyPac November 2012 Newsletter

Link to CalHyPac May 2012 Newsletter

Why Does CDHA need a PAC?

CalHyPAC is the only political action committee that represents California dental hygienists. The PAC establishes relationships with California legislators who believe that dental hygienists are an important and essential part of the health care system. We support candidates for the California legislature who believe in our interests, concerns, and goals. When CDHA introduces legislation, we need a supportive legislator who will sponsor the bill for us. For example, Senator Don Perata sponsored our bill for the establishment of the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice (RDHAP).

How Does CalHyPAC work?

We encourage and welcome your input and recommendations for those candidates who will receive support from CalHyPAC. The PAC consists of six to ten CDHA members nominated by the CDHA president and confirmed by the CDHA Board of Trustees for a three year term. The committee meets once a year at the office of our legislative advocacy firm, Aaron Read and Associates. The PAC is sustained by contributions and income from fundraisers.

How will the PAC funds be used?

The CalHyPAC committee uses the PAC funds to support legislative fundraisers for candidates who are dental hygiene friendly. CDHA’s legislative advocacy firm, Aaron Read and Associates, helps us to use our funds judiciously. We also use a small portion of the funds for administrative costs, such as professional accountant services for required reporting of financial transactions. All PACS are heavily regulated by the Fair Political Practices Commission.

Who can contribute to the PAC?

Any individual may contribute to the PAC, whether they are CDHA members or not.

Is there a recommended contribution amount?

All donations, large or small, subject to legal limits ($6,500 per year), are welcome. Your contributions are not deductible for state or federal income tax purposes.

Where should contributions be sent?

Fair Political Practice Act requires you to include your name, address, occupations and name of your employer with your check. If you are self-employed, or have your own business, please put your business name on your check.