The Johnson Amendment: Safeguarding Nonprofit Nonpartisanship in a Polarized Era

Since its enactment in 1954, the Johnson Amendment has served as a cornerstone in maintaining the nonpartisan nature of 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. This provision prohibits tax-exempt entities, including charities, religious institutions, and educational organizations, from endorsing or opposing political candidates. However, recent political discourse has reignited debates over its relevance and enforcement, raising concerns about the potential erosion of public trust in the nonprofit sector.

This webinar will delve into the historical context, current challenges, and future implications of the Johnson Amendment, including:

• – The origins and intent behind the 1954 legislation.
• – The role of the amendment in preserving the integrity and public trust of nonprofits.
• – Recent efforts to challenge or repeal the provision and their potential impact.
• – Guidance for nonprofit leaders on navigating advocacy and political engagement within legal boundaries.

Join us for an insightful discussion featuring experts in nonprofit law and policy, aimed at equipping organizations with the knowledge to uphold their missions while adhering to regulatory frameworks.

Speakers:

Ben Kershaw
Director of Public Policy and Government Relations at Independent Sector Professor

Ellen P. Aprill
Senior Scholar in Residence at UCLA School of Law’s Lowell Milken Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofits

Professor Darryll K. Jones
Florida A&M University College of Law and co-editor of the Nonprofit Law Professor Blog