Interpreting an Evolving Law

The FPPC is the agency primarily responsible for interpreting the provisions of the Act and providing advice to the regulated community about their obligations under the law. We must frequently reexamine our regulations and the advice we give to stay ahead of the ever-changing landscape of campaign finance and governmental ethics. 

In order to provide specific guidelines to candidates, committees, treasurers, public officials, and other members of the regulated community, the FPPC sets forth Regulations that provide specificity to the Act’s statutory provisions.

The FPPC offers telephone and online advice for individuals looking for basic Advice regarding their responsibilities under the Act. For requests that are more complex in nature, the FPPC offers members of the public the opportunity to request formal written advice that carries more legal significance than other types of advice because it may also protect requesters from enforcement actions.