ValuPAC Frequently Asked Questions
(ValuPAC login below)
email svu.pac@supervalu.com for login information
Summary
ValuPAC is SUPERVALU’s volunteer, non-partisan political action committee. ValuPAC is supported with contributions from eligible employees and supports candidates who run for public office who understand our industry, company, customers, associates and communities.
Your support for SUPERVALU’s efforts to promote the adoption of legislation and regulatory rules that are favorable to our company and its constituents is vital. The PAC Board will make annual recommendations for donations that support the above goal and will be done without partisan consideration. Individual recommendations will also be considered.
What is a Political Action Committee (PAC)? Apolitical action committee is an organization that raises and dispenses funds to candidates and issue advocacy campaigns at the state and federal level. SUPERVALU’s ValuPAC is a federal PAC. [top]
Why is ValuPAC a key component of SUPERVALU’s government affairs? Modern political campaigns are very expensive to conduct, and candidates need financial support to reach voters through television, radio, print media and mailings. Without adequate financing, candidates have a hard time getting their message out to voters, and thus may not be elected. If candidates who support a competitive marketplace lose their election, we, in the retail business, lose as well.
The ValuPAC supports the campaigns of candidates who work for the concerns of the retail business. In doing so, SUPERVALU has a political voice in the issues and causes that make our company more sustainable and – in the end – ensure growth and opportunity for associates. [top]
Who can contribute to ValuPAC? Only eligible associates may participate in the ValuPAC; the company cannot contribute. Guidelines for eligible associates are as follows; please read the guidelines carefully. Qualified associates eligible to participate are executive and administrative associates who are paid on a salary rather than on an hourly basis, and who have policy making, managerial, professional or supervisory responsibilities. At SUPERVALU, this includes directors and above (including non-union pharmacists), managers and professionals. Federal law requires that PAC members be U.S. citizens or have permanent legal residency status. [top]
What are the criteria for supporting candidates with ValuPAC funds? ValuPAC supports candidates who run for public office who understand our industry, company, customers, associates and communities. ValuPAC will also support candidates who are in leadership positions critical to company interests or whom represent critical areas for our company and its banners. The ValuPAC Board will make annual recommendations for donations that support this goal and they will be done without partisan consideration. The ValuPAC Chair will present the ValuPAC Board with a contribution plan that supports the efforts of SUPERVALU’s Government Affairs department each election cycle for their consideration. Recommendations will also be considered from company leaders, PAC Board members and individual members of ValuPAC. Donations will be considered to individual candidates as well as multi-candidate committees and political parties. All contributions made by ValuPAC will only support federal campaigns and will be reported and communicated to eligible associates. [top]
How important is my financial support of ValuPAC? Your contributions to ValuPAC will allow us to have a strong voice in the political process in Washington, D.C. Changes in election finance laws require us and the retail food industry to more effectively manage political resources. Your support of ValuPAC allows us to meet and expand our participation. Participation is strictly voluntary; associates will not be pressured to contribute . [top]
Are my contributions tax deductible? No. Contributions to the SUPERVALU Federal Political Action Committee are not deductible as charitable contributions for Federal income tax purposes. For further guidance, you should contact your tax advisor. [top]
How much can I contribute? An individual is limited to $5,000 in annual contributions to the ValuPAC. A suggested contribution schedule is also available as a guideline, and should be included in the PAC materials you receive. [top]
When are contributions to ValuPAC needed? NOW! Candidates are planning for the 2010 elections already. ValuPAC will engage in the political process and support candidates who understand our industry and support a healthy business climate. [top]
How do I join ValuPAC? Simply send and e-mail to svu.pac@supervalu.com asking to join. [top]
How much should I give? That is completely up to you. If you’re an eligible employee, a recommended contribution level for your position is at the bottom of the enrollment form. Most important, we hope you will join and understand that every dollar helps your Government Affairs team make a difference for you and the company. [top]
How are contributions made? You can sign up for weekly payroll deductions (recommended) or write a check directly to ValuPAC.
Thank you in advance for your support of ValuPAC. If you need a ValuPAC password or have additional questions or comments please e-mail svu.pac@supervalu.com.
Mike Erlandson,
Chair ValuPAC
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