Federal Election Commission

Federal Election Commission, independent U.S. government agency that enforces the Federal Election Campaign Act, which governs campaign spending for election to federal offices. The act mandates disclosures of campaign spending and expenses, and restricts the size of campaign contributions from groups or individuals. Corporation and labor union contributions are prohibited under the Federal Election Campaign Act. Established in 1974 and with members appointed by the president and approved by the Senate, the Federal Election Commission has the power to investigate and audit campaign funds.