Should churches follow the NAACP and file as 501 (c) 4 to pursue political goals?

[phill4paul]

Seems it would allow them to "preach politics from the pulpit." What's good for the goose and whatnot.

NAACP Elects New President, Will Assume More Political Non-Profit Tax Status

The organization announced its new president and CEO and its intention to alter its tax status to a non-profit category that permits more aggressive political lobbying.

During a phone call with reporters, Johnson also said the NAACP's national office would soon transition from the 501(c)3 non-profit status it currently holds to become a 501(c)4.

The change will lift significant restrictions on the NAACP's ability to engage in political lobbying. IRS rules permit political actions by 501(c)4 groups, though not as their "primary activity."

Speaking with reporters, Johnson said the decision was in line with one of his organization's top priorities: promoting candidates and issues in local and Congressional elections ahead of next year's midterms.

https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo...l-assume-more-political-non-profit-tax-status

 

[donnay]

Trump lifted the 'Johnson Amendment' with an Executive Order in May, I believe.

 

[phill4paul]

Trump lifted the 'Johnson Amendment' with an Executive Order in May, I believe.

Nope. It takes Congress to do that. It was absent in the new tax bill.

 

[donnay]

Nope. It takes Congress to do that. It was absent in the new tax bill.

Okay, so this is what I found...

The Senate version of the GOP’s tax plan does not repeal the Johnson Amendment, but President Trump has vowed to get rid of it entirely.

http://www.wbur.org/onpoint/2017/11/29/johnson-amendment-nonprofits

As both chambers head to conference to reach a final bill that will be voted on in both the House and Senate, sources close to the matter say there is a 50/50 chance a repeal of the Johnson Amendment will be in the final bill. One thing that makes them "cautiously optimistic" is that leadership in both the House and Senate are committed to repealing the Johnson Amendment.

https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/politi...ax-bill-will-restore-free-speech-for-churches