A Call for Mormons to Lose Tax Exempt Status

In their multi-million dollar effort to once again ban same-sex marriage in California, it is apparent the Mormon church has over-stepped their tax-free boundaries (according to the IRS laws anyway). So, I’m curious as to why action hasn’t been brought against them. Should the Mormon church (LDS) lose their tax exempt status for their involvement in banning California gay marriage? Read these IRS rules and decide for yourself!

IRS on Tax Exempt Status:

Section 501(c)(3) describes corporations, and any community chest, fund, or foundation, organized and operated exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, testing for public safety, literacy, or educational purposes, or to foster national or international amateur sports competition (but only if no part of its activities involve the provision of athletic facilities or equipment), or for the prevention of cruelty to children or animals, no part of the net earnings of which inures to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual, no substantial part of the activities of which is carrying on propaganda, or otherwise attempting, to influence legislation (except as otherwise provided in section (h)), and which does not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements), any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.

IRS on Lobbying:

In general, no organization, including a church, may qualify for IRC section 501(c)(3) status if a substantial part of its activities is attempting to influence legislation (commonly known as lobbying). An IRC section 501(c)(3) organization may engage in some lobbying, but too much lobbying activity risks loss of tax-exempt status.

What’s your opinion? Let us know!