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HOME / COMPLIANCE HELP / PUBLICATIONS / BCRA INFO / ELECTIONEERING COMMUNICATIONS/ EXAMPLES OF COMMUNICATIONS UNDER WRTL EXEMPTION IN 11 CFR 114.15

Examples of Communications under the WRTL Exemption in 11 CFR 114.15

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Communications that Qualify for the Safe Harbor

Example 1

[source: Wisconsin Right to Life, Inc. v. FEC, 466 F. Supp. 2d 195, 198 n.4 (D.D.C. 2006)]

LOAN OFFICER: Welcome Mr. and Mrs. Shulman.  We’ve reviewed your loan application, along with your credit report, the appraisal on the house, the inspections, and well . . .

COUPLE: Yes, yes . . . we’re listening.

OFFICER: Well, it all reminds me of a time I went fishing with my father. We were on the Wolf River Waupaca . . .

VOICE-OVER: Sometimes it’s just not fair to delay an important decision.

But in Washington, it’s happening.  A group of Senators is using the filibuster delay tactic to block federal judicial nominees from a simple “yes” or “no” vote.  So qualified candidates aren’t getting a chance to serve.

It’s politics at work, causing gridlock and backing up some of our courts to a state of emergency.

Contact Senators Feingold and Kohl and tell them to oppose the filibuster.

Visit: BeFair.org

Paid for by Wisconsin Right to Life (befair.org), which is responsible for the content of this advertising and not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee

 

Example 2

[source: Civic Christian League of Maine v. FEC, 443 F. Supp. 2d 81 (D.D.C. 2006) (No. 06-0614)]

Our country stands at the crossroads – at the intersection of how marriage will be defined for future generations.  Marriage between a man and a woman has been challenged across this country and could be declared unconstitutional at any time by rogue judges.  We must safeguard the traditional definition of marriage by putting it beyond the reach of all judges – by writing it into the U.S. Constitution.  Unfortunately, your senators voted against the Marriage Protection Amendment two years ago.  Please call Sens. Snowe and Collins immediately and urge them to support the Marriage Protection Amendment when it comes to a vote in early June.  Call the Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 and ask for your senators.  Again, that’s 202-224-3121.  Thank you for making your voice heard. 

Paid for by the Christian Civic League of Maine, which is responsible for the content of this advertising and not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee

 

Example 3

[source: Final Rules and Explanation & Justification for Electioneering Communications, 72 FR 72899 (Dec. 26, 2007)]

[VOICE OVER SPEAKING WHILE SHOWING VARIOUS FOOTAGE OF DEALERSHIP]: Cadillac.  Style.  luxury.  Visit Joe Smith Cadillac in Waukesha.  Where we uphold the Cadillac legacy of style, luxury and performance everyday.  At Joe Smith Cadillac, you’ll find a huge selection of Cadillacs and receive award-winning service every time you bring your Cadillac in.  Whether you’re in the market for a classic sedan or SUV, you can be sure Joe Smith Cadillac has it.  And while shopping for your Cadillac, a single detail won’t be missed. We know the importance of taking care of our customers. That’s why you’ll always find incredible service specials to help to maintain your Cadillac.  When it comes to care for your Cadillac, you shouldn’t settle for anything less than the best.  We’re Wisconsin’s all-time sales leader and we want to be your Cadillac dealership. 

[VOICE OVER SPEAKING WHILE VIDEO OF INSIDE DEALERSHIP ZOOMS IN ON FRAMED PICTURE ON WALL OF JOE SMITH]: Stop into Joe Smith Cadillac, on Highway 18 in Waukesha, and see what Cadillac style really is all about


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Communications that do not Qualify for the Safe Harbor, but Qualify for the General Exemption

Example 1

[source: McConnell v. FEC, 251 F. Supp. 2d 176, 876 (D.D.C. 2003) (Leon, J.)]

It’s our land; our water.  America’s environment must be protected.  But in just 18 months, Congressman Ganske has voted 12 out of 12 times to weaken environmental protections.  Congressman Ganske even voted to let corporations continue releasing cancer-causing pollutants into our air. Congressman Ganske voted for the big corporations who lobbied these bills and gave him thousands of dollars in contributions.  Call Congressman Ganske.  Tell him to protect America’s environment. For our families.  For our future

 

Example 2

[source: Final Rules and Explanation & Justification for Electioneering Communications, 72 FR 72899 (Dec. 26, 2007)]

Announcer: Hello, I’m Sally Smith.  Most of us think of heart disease as a problem that mostly affects men.  But today, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among American women.  It doesn’t have to stay that way.  Lower cholesterol, daily exercise, and regular visits to your doctor can help you fight back.  So have heart, America, and together we can reduce the risk of heart disease. 

Voice Over: This message brought to you by DISH Network



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Communications that are not Exempt

Example 1

[source: McConnell v. FEC, 540 U.S. 93, 193 n.78 (2003)]

Who is Bill Yellowtail?  He preaches family values but took a swing at his wife.  And Yellowtail’s response?  He only slapped her.  But “her nose was not broken.”  He talks law and order . . . but is himself a convicted felon.  And though he talks about protecting children, Yellowtail failed to make his own child support payments – then voted against child support enforcement.  Call Bill Yellowtail.  Tell him to support family values.

 

Example 2

[source: McConnell v. FEC, 251 F. Supp. 2d 176, 876 (D.D.C. 2003) (Leon, J.)]

What’s important to America’s families?  [middle-aged man, interview style]: "My pension is very important because it will provide a significant amount of my income when I retire.”  And where do the candidates stand? Congressman Charlie Bass voted to make it easier for corporations to convert employee pension funds to other uses.  Arnie Arnesen supports the "Golden Trust Fund” legislation that would preserve pension funds for retirees.  When it comes to your pension, there is a difference.  Call or visit our website to find out more.


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