Some Churches Violated Tax-Exempt Status
The IRS has found that some churches and other charities violated their tax-exempt status during the 2004 political season following an audit by a special task force.
Apparently the task force was formed to investigate organizations "referred to the IRS for potentially violating laws that bar them from participating in or intervening in elections, including advocating for or against any candidate," according to an AP report.
In other words, they checked only those that were ratted out by someone. What's surprising is that the IRS claims they only had 110 to investigate. Three groups had their tax-exempt status removed, but none were churches.
Among the violations reported: passing out campaign material supporting a particular candidate, use of improper voting guides, using the pulpit to support a particular candidate, and improper cash donations.
With all the reports of the Christian right going out of its way to ensure the reelection of what's-his-name, it's a wonder no churches were penalized severely.
But then again, maybe not.
Apparently the task force was formed to investigate organizations "referred to the IRS for potentially violating laws that bar them from participating in or intervening in elections, including advocating for or against any candidate," according to an AP report.
In other words, they checked only those that were ratted out by someone. What's surprising is that the IRS claims they only had 110 to investigate. Three groups had their tax-exempt status removed, but none were churches.
Among the violations reported: passing out campaign material supporting a particular candidate, use of improper voting guides, using the pulpit to support a particular candidate, and improper cash donations.
With all the reports of the Christian right going out of its way to ensure the reelection of what's-his-name, it's a wonder no churches were penalized severely.
But then again, maybe not.
posted by truthisnews at 9:20 AM
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