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+ The Houses of Worship Free Speech Restoration Act

You've probably never heard a minister, priest or rabbi endorse a political candidate during a worship service. You've probably never seen a religiously sponsored advertisement in the newspaper, calling attention to an elected official's stand on the moral issues of the day. You've probably not heard your religious leaders discuss the legislative issues being considered by government agencies.

That's because tax-exempt religious organizations are forbidden to participate in activities deemed "too political." This law was added to the 1954 tax code reform bill by then-Senator Lyndon B. Johnson. The penalty for breaking this law is loss of tax-exempt status, which can be financially devastating to organizations, as they would have to begin paying income tax on the donations they receive.

Yes, the Internal Revenue Service has the right to decide if a religious organization is engaging in political speech, and has the authority to revoke tax-exempt status as seen fit. The IRS tends to be selective about enforcing this law, too. Often, conservative groups are targeted, while ignored are the liberal churches that actually invite candidates to speak during worship services.

The NYFPC - along with many other groups - believes this law is unconstitutional, hindering the right of free speech given to every citizen under the First Amendment. Therefore, we want to update you on new legislation to be introduced in the United States Congress this year.

Sponsored by Congressman Walter B. Jones, the Houses of Worship Free Speech Restoration Act, HR 235, will end the fear and intimidation religious leaders have faced for the past 49 years.

We want you to contact your congressmen and senators on this issue, and have made this possible through the NYFPC Legislative Action Center.

Log onto http://www.nyfpc.org, and click on the link for the Legislative Action Center. There you will find more information on this issue, and a pre-written letter to send to your elected officials.

Churches, synagogues, religious organizations - NYFPC Executive Director James H. K. Bruner is available to discuss the Houses Of Worship Free Speech Restoration Act with you, either privately or as a public forum. Call him at the NYFPC office, 518-432-8756, or email him at jbruner@nyfpc.org for more information.