IRS Mulls New Speech Guidelines for Nonprofits

The IRS is considering new guidelines for both religious and other nonprofit organizations when it comes to speaking out on political issues.

For years, there has been debate over how much pastors and leaders of charitable organizations can express their political opinions while maintaining their tax-exempt status.

"Something needs to change," Religion News Service quoted Dan Busby, president of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. "We agree that clear and brighter lines must be adopted."

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., is asking the IRS and not-for-profit organizations to work together to clarify just how far charities and churches can go when it comes to political issues.

Opponents of past IRS restrictions say limiting a nonprofit's right to speak out concerning political issues is also limiting their right to free speech.