Democracy works when every vote counts. The Suffolk County Campaign Finance Board (SCCFB), is empowered and authorized to establish and promulgate rules, policies and procedures as it deems necessary for the proper administration of the Fair Elections Matching Fund (FEMF) Program, in accordance with Charter Law, Chapter C, Article XLII. The program offers a 4 to 1 public match of eligible donor contributions. Thus, maximizing access and opportunity for all Suffolk County residents to run for office and ensure all residents have a voice in their county government.

By encouraging candidates to raise small-dollar contributions from local residents, the program increases engagement between voters and those who seek to represent them. Matching funds encourage voters to be more involved in elections, and it helps ensure elected officials are accountable to voters, not special interests. With this program, constituent donations are the most important source of a candidate’s funding.