As a scientific and educational institution committed to the advancement of the science of radiology and the improvement of the radiologic care of patients, the ACR had long been classified by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) organization. In recent years, however, the College had become active in monitoring the ever-growing oversight of medicine by federal and state officials in an effort to protect the interests of its members and the patients they care for. Unfortunately, 501(c)(3) organizations are severely restricted in the amount of resources that can be used for lobbying efforts and are prohibited from making direct campaign contributions to candidates or forming a political action committee.

With campaign finance legislation placing an even greater emphasis on PAC contributions, the College decided to transition its advocacy activities to a 501(c)(6) organization, the American College of Radiology Association (ACRa), to allow for increased advocacy efforts. The College retained its original tax status. As of July 1, 2003, all members of the College were automatically also members of the Association. While the 2 organizations are separate entities from a legal and corporate standpoint, the members of the College Board of Chancellors, Council, and Council Steering Committee serve in the same capacities in the Association, so control of each organization remains firmly in the hands of the membership. All government relations and economics issues are handled by the newly formed ACRa; other activities continue to be handled by the College.

If you have questions about membership, please contact the membership department at 1-800-347-7748, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Eastern Time, or e-mail membership@acr.org