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Professional associations

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

Organizations representing licensed occupations and skilled practitioners that advance members' economic interests, set ethical and credentialing standards, and provide continuing education. They lobby legislatures and regulatory agencies, fund campaigns or PACs, and supply technical expertise that shapes licensing rules, professional regulation, and public policy at state and federal levels.

AP course connection

Topic 5.6: 5.6 Interest Groups Influencing Policy Making

Unit 5

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