What are the rules governing lobbying activities by nonprofits?

In South Dakota, nonprofit organizations must abide by certain laws that dictate how they are allowed to lobby for or against legislation. Nonprofits are prohibited from using more than 50% of their time and resources to influence legislation, and they may not use any of their funds to support or oppose political candidates or issues. Additionally, nonprofits are not allowed to make any financial contributions to governmental bodies, and they cannot use their funds to make political donations. Nonprofits in South Dakota must also report any lobbying activities to the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State Office has a filing requirement for any lobbying activities that occur in the state. This filing must include the name of the nonprofit’s director, any partners or joint ventures, and a statement regarding the purpose of the lobbying. It must also provide the estimated amount of time spent on lobbying activities and the type of activities conducted. Finally, nonprofits in South Dakota are not allowed to participate in any activities that would inhibit free and open discussion about laws and the legislative process. This includes trying to influence the outcome of any vote taken by a governmental body or using deceptive techniques to sway decisions. Nonprofits must always act with transparency and integrity when lobbying for legislative changes.

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What are the rules governing lobbying activities by nonprofits?

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