Quote:
Originally Posted by Adder
Based only on that IRS bulletin, that seems technically correct, although a ballot measure is a lot closer to a campaign than normal lobbying.
Ah, but it is. Last year, when the money was spent, it was a bill before the legislature to put the question on the ballot. The referendum will happen this fall.
Beyond that, it seems like a truly silly policy draw the distinction you suggest. Which, of course, doesn't mean you are wrong. But this is quite explicitly political activity and tax exempt entities are not supposed to be making substantial expenditures on political activity.
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But given the size of the Catholic Church in Minnesota (both in terms of its activities and the amount of money that goes through its coffers), I can't imagine that $650,000 would be considered substantial. I also suspect that it being an official act, they got the OK from lawyers who know a heck of a lot more about 501(c)(3) tax law than any of us in this discussion.
