Inform the IRS: Churches trying to influence legislation

[Avalux]

Not sure how "Justice Sunday" participation fits into the exempt tax code - but it wouldn't hurt to contact the IRS with specific names of churches and request an inquiry. I am drafting a letter with names of churches in my area, you can do the same.

Find churches who participated in your area here:

http://www.frc.org/get.cfm?c=JS_SIMULCAST

Here's the code text from the IRS's website:

In general, no organization may qualify for section 501(c)(3) status if a substantial part of its activities is attempting to influence legislation (commonly known as lobbying). A 501(c)(3) organization may engage in some lobbying, but too much lobbying activity risks loss of tax-exempt status.

Legislation includes action by Congress, any state legislature, any local council, or similar governing body, with respect to acts, bills, resolutions, or similar items (such as legislative confirmation of appointive office), or by the public in referendum, ballot initiative, constitutional amendment, or similar procedure. It does not include actions by executive, judicial, or administrative bodies.

An organization will be regarded as attempting to influence legislation if it contacts, or urges the public to contact, members or employees of a legislative body for the purpose of proposing, supporting, or opposing legislation, or if the organization advocates the adoption or rejection of legislation.

Organizations may, however, involve themselves in issues of public policy without the activity being considered as lobbying. For example, organizations may conduct educational meetings, prepare and distribute educational materials, or otherwise consider public policy issues in an educational manner without jeopardizing their tax-exempt status.
http://www.irs.gov/charities/charitable/article/0,,id=120703,00.html

[Avalux]

1. kick! n/t

[Avalux]

2. kick (again)! n/t

[Avalux]

3. Last kick -

surprised no one replied to this - am I way off base for posting it?

Even if the IRS throws my letter in the garbage, I'm sending it anyway. Pisses me off these churches can be used as a forum to influence people by elected officials and not pay one cent in taxes.