Description: The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) is a U.S.-based nonprofit membership organization of state legislators and private-sector representatives that develops and promotes model state legislation and policy aimed at advancing limited government, free markets, federalism and private‑public collaboration. Type: Nonprofit organization (primarily a 501(c)(3) public charity) with an affiliated 501(c)(4) advocacy arm (ALEC Action) Policies: Drafts and advocates model state legislation on limited government, tax and fiscal policy, deregulation, business-friendly rules, privatization (including education and services), tort reform, labor and union restrictions, voting and election laws, criminal justice and public safety, energy and environment policy favoring market approaches, and technology/communications policy. Funding: Primarily funded by membership dues and donations from corporate and private‑sector members, fees from state legislators, foundation grants and contributions to its affiliated advocacy arm. Affiliates: ALEC Action (501(c)(4) advocacy affiliate), Private Enterprise Advisory Council, Board of Scholars; founded by conservative activists including Henry Hyde and Paul Weyrich; broad network of state legislators and corporate/private‑sector members.
