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

Nonprofits can work to change the law through ballot measures and other legislation. This workshop will provide a clear understanding of how to maximize advocacy, the kinds of advocacy activities 501(c)(3)s can engage in, and when a communication is considered lobbying. Specific topics to be covered: how federal tax law permits lobbying for charities and how lobbying is defined; one easy step most nonprofits 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; and application of these rules to ballot measure activities.