What is COPE?

What Does COPE Stand for? COPE is an acronym for the Committee on Political Education. It is your union's voluntary bi-partisan Political Action Committee used for political and legislative activities. By law, your union cannot use your union dues for political contributions. 

Why Is SEIU Involved in Politics?Public Employee collective bargaining rights, job security, working conditions, and benefits are decided by elected officials. To do an effective job in collective bargaining, SEIU 517M must be involved in electing candidates to school boards, city councils, county commissions, Governor, State Legislature, President, and Congress, who value, who believe in, and who will stand up for Public Employee issues at the decision making TABLE.

How many other PACs are there in Michigan? There are over 150 PACs giving Corporations and wealthy individuals a say when it comes to deciding laws that will impact our day to day lives. SEIU COPE gives SEIU members that say, ensuring that their voice will be heard with a seat at the TABLE.

How is the Money Used?
All COPE money goes into SEIU's Political Account for use in local, state, and federal activities only. It does not become part of the general treasury. A portion goes to the SEIU federal PAC at the International office for use in Congressional or U.S. Senate races. COPE money is used not only for contributions to candidates, but also voter registration efforts, lobbying, and get-out-the-vote efforts. Funds are also used to introduce and pass legislation that protects SEIU members and their families.

Who Does SEIU Support? SEIU supports pro-SEIU, pro-worker candidates in local, state and federal election campaigns. SEIU 517M is bi-partisan and has supported Republicans as well as Democrats who support our issues. For local races, 517M holds candidate screenings open to all members to question the candidates. For state races, 517M participates with other Michigan SEIU locals in jointly screening candidates on the key issues of concern to SEIU members.