Proposed bill would limit political activity for nonprofits like churches

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — A new bill floated by Democrats in the New York State legislature targets tax-exempt nonprofits like churches and charities that participate in political campaigns. The proposal, introduced by Senator James Skoufis and Assemblymember Tony Simone, would create a new state process to enforce a federal rule currently being challenged.

The Nonpartisan Pulpit Act, S8745, would codify into state law a 1954 provision called the Johnson Amendment. This rule is supposed to prevent 501(c)(3) organizations—a tax category including charities, foundations, and religious institutions—from endorsing or opposing political candidates, or else lose tax-exempt status.

The bill’s text defines "political campaign activity" as any participation or intervention in a political campaign