ONLINE: Advocacy and Lobbying 101: Legal Tips for 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Advocates

Thursday, October 20, 2002
10:00am-11:30am PT
Online Hosted by 501 Commons

501(c)(3)s play an important role in educating the public about policy issues and actions taken by elected officials, including the President. Elected officials vote on bills, make public statements and executive decisions, and set the course for public policy on a wide range of issues. These actions may be consistent with or conflict with a nonprofit’s position on an issue. After this workshop you will have a clear understanding of how to maximize your advocacy, the kinds of advocacy activities 501(c)(3)s can engage in, and when an act of communication is considered lobbying.

Participants will learn:

• How federal tax law permits lobbying for charities and how lobbying is defined.
• One easy step most charities can take to maximize the amount they’re allowed to spend on lobbying.
• Yearly lobbying limits for charities.
• Tips for taking advantage of the narrow definitions of lobbying – which will help charities make the most of their lobbying limit.
• The application of these rules to ballot measure activities.