California Fair Political Practices Commission

The California Fair Political Practices Commission is the government body that enforces political campaign, lobbying, and conflict of interest laws in the state of California, similar to what the Federal Elections Commission does at the federal level. It was established in 1974 by the Political Reform Act, a ballot initiative passed by California voters as Proposition 9.

The FPPC educates the public and public officials on the requirements of the Act. It provides written and oral advice to public agencies and officials; conducts seminars and training sessions; develops forms, manuals and instructions; and receives and files statements of economic interests from many state and local officials.

The FPPC investigates alleged violations of the Political Reform Act, imposes penalties when appropriate, and assists state and local agencies in developing and enforcing conflict-of-interest codes.

The FPPC regulates:

* campaign financing and spending;
* financial conflicts of interest;
* lobbyist registration and reporting;
* post-governmental employment;
* mass mailings at public expense; and
* gifts and honoraria given to public officials and candidates.

Its first chair was Daniel H. Lowenstein.

External links

* http://www.fppc.ca.gov/