Executive Summary
Members of Congress are increasingly concerned about foreign donations to 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations potentially being used for US political activities. Yet, as we delve into the details and examine available data, a complex and nuanced narrative emerges. The rise in scrutiny appears to be fueled by a small number of bad actors that should be investigated and prosecuted, rather than a systemic abuse of the laws and regulations underlying the nonprofit sector—particularly tax-exempt charitable organizations.
Even within the context of IRS examinations, instances of noncompliance—particularly nonprofits inappropriately engaging in political activities—seem relatively rare. Moreover, a closer look at the political engagement of 501(c)(4) organizations reveals that the narrative is not one of widespread advocacy, but rather a more nuanced pattern of involvement.
America is more than a government and group of individuals. It is home to an intricate landscape of nonprofit organizations, created and supported by like-minded citizens who are passionate about diverse causes and communities. If lawmakers concentrate solely on the political activities of these charitable organizations, they risk distorting their broader role and contributions to the well-being and improvement of our society.
Imposing rigid regulations or sweeping donor disclosure mandates without due consideration to the constitutional right to privacy in association could inadvertently undermine the support and services these nonprofits offer Americans across the country, ranging from assisting disabled veterans and funding volunteer fire departments to providing educational resources to disadvantaged kids and fostering community service groups and neighborhood associations.
This policy brief begins to explore the complexities underlying the broader discourse on nonprofit activities, donor privacy, and the delicate balance between political transparency and American’s constitutional right to private, voluntary association.
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Donor Disclosure Means Less for Charities and Those They Serve
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