As we embark upon the 2024 dues renewal cycle, it is important to draw your attention to a proactive effort within California to expand the architects VOICE in Sacramento, representing your interests and advocating for the built environment.

As we all know, a strong political action committee is critical in Sacramento and essential for AIA California to build relationships with state leaders – leaders who support initiatives and issues impacting the built environment, our profession, and our communities.

Decisions affecting the business and practice of architecture will be made whether or not we are part of the conversation but an investment in political action ensures we have a seat at the table.

To strengthen the profession’s VOICE, the AIA California Board of Directors recently took action to support the California Architects for Livable Communities Political Action Committee (CALC PAC) as part of the annual membership dues. This investment is allowed by California state law with notice to members and an option to select where these funds are used. The intention of this memorandum is to explain the mechanism for doing so and answer some frequently asked questions.

BACKGROUND
During the AIA California Board of Directors meeting on August 4, 2023, the Board was asked to set the 2024 dues rate and action was taken to increase AIA member dues by 3% (for AIA members only) as well as include a $10 contribution to CALC PAC (as part of the annual membership dues).

Dues Increase: AIA California has not raised membership dues in 10 years; this 3% investment will continue AIA California’s commitment to harnessing the transformative power of architecture and design to address the greatest economic, environmental, and social challenges of our time. We will continue to provide over 11,000 AIA members in California with innovative practice resources and quality, free professional continuing education. We will continue to advocate for sound public policies that support livable, sustainable communities everywhere. And, we will serve our members by uniting all architecture professionals in the design of a more just, equitable, and resilient future.

Contribution to CALC PAC: At its core, AIA California provides a strong and continuing presence in the State Capitol by protecting the architectural profession and advocating on behalf of architects before California’s Legislature and regulatory agencies. By fostering critical relationships between architects and individuals who make decisions about the profession, AIA California through its political action committee, CALC PAC, can boost its effectiveness on issues critical to the built environment – from issues related to licensing, building codes, and zoning regulations, and sustainable design practices to influencing and shaping policies related to urban planning, infrastructure development, and climate resiliency.

Directing Your Investment: California State law gives members the option to direct how CALC PAC contributions (collected as part of membership dues) are to be used – either in support of CALC PAC or for the AIA CA general advocacy efforts. Should members decide to allow $10 to be earmarked specifically for CALC PAC, no action is needed – just pay dues when you receive your renewal notice. If, at any time in the future, you wish to change your support for CALC PAC (and move it to our general advocacy efforts), please contact Nicki Dennis Stephens, Executive Vice President, AIA CA via e-mail at ndennis@aiacalifornia.org or via telephone at (916) 448-9082.