What are the restrictions on the use of nonprofit funds for political activities?

In Washington, nonprofit organizations are subject to certain restrictions on their use of funds for political activities. Under state law, nonprofits are prohibited from using any of their funds to directly or indirectly support any political party or candidate, or to influence the election of any candidate. This means that nonprofits cannot use their funds to make political contributions, buy advertising related to an election, or organize events to support a particular candidate or party. Nonprofits may, however, engage in certain activities for candidates or parties that do not involve the use of any funds. Examples include distributing non-partisan voter guides, hosting candidate forums, or holding public educational events on public policy topics, as long as these events are not presented in a way that could be seen as favoring one candidate or party over another. Nonprofits are also prohibited from using any funds to support or oppose any ballot measure or referendum. This does not include providing factual information about a measure or referendum as long as that information is not presented in a way that could be seen as favoring one side over the other. Nonprofits are free to engage in legislative lobbying and other advocacy activities, as long as they do not involve the use of any funds. To make sure that the organization is not engaging in prohibited activities, it is important for it to be aware of the restrictions on its use of funds for political activities.

Related FAQs

What are the restrictions on the use of nonprofit funds for political activities?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts