Political Contributions
Allergan recognizes that informed public policy is a critical factor in achieving its goal of pursuing medical advances to help patients live life to their fullest potential. Allergan participates in the political process and supports those policies, candidates and organizations who work to advance healthcare innovation and improve patient access to needed medical treatments while also recognizing that a fair, free market system provides the best atmosphere for continued innovation.
While Federal law prohibits corporations from making political contributions to Federal candidates, companies can establish political action committees that are funded solely through voluntary employee contributions. The Allergan Political Action Committee for Employees (APACE) was established to provide eligible employees a direct means to voluntarily participate in shaping sound public policy on issues related to Allergan’s businesses. APACE operates in accordance with all relevant Federal and state laws and supports candidates from both parties. All APACE contributions are publicly disclosed in reports available on the Federal Election Commission’s Web site at www.fec.gov.
Corporations are permitted to contribute to state election campaigns in certain states and may lawfully contribute to certain other political organizations. Allergan operates in accordance with all relevant Federal and state laws and supports candidates from both parties. Beginning with the January 1, 2009, to December 31, 2009, period, and on an annual basis, Allergan makes a list of all corporate state and local political contributions directly supporting or opposing candidates available via this Web site to promote transparency.
The Corporate Governance and Compliance Committee of Allergan’s Board of Directors annually reviews Allergan’s political contribution policies and practices. In addition, APACE’s board, comprised of employees who are APACE participants also assists Allergan's Government Affairs department in selecting policies, candidates and organizations to support. When selecting candidates for funding, priority is given to candidates' views on issues that concern Allergan’s businesses and the presence of employees or facilities in such candidate's state or district.
Questions regarding Allergan’s political contributions, or how to become more involved in the policies that affect Allergan, should be directed to the Government Affairs department. Questions regarding APACE should be directed to: Treasurer, Allergan Political Action Committee for Employees, 2148 E. Orangeview Lane, Orange, CA 92867.