WASHINGTON, D.C. — Religious organizations could receive clearer federal guidance on what they can say about politics during services, as the Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service move to define how existing tax law applies to churches.
What This Means for You
- Churches may receive clearer rules on political speech during services
- Internal religious communications may be treated differently from public political activity
- Updated guidance could affect how tax-exempt status is enforced
Federal officials said the forthcoming guidance will address how the Johnson Amendment applies to houses of worship.
The Johnson Amendment is a provision in federal tax law that prohibits tax-exempt organizations, including churches, from participating in or intervening in political campaigns.
What the New Guidance Will Do
Officials said the guidance will provide clearer, enforceable standards for how the law applies in religious settings.
In practical terms, it is expected to clarify what types of communication within a congregation—such as sermons or internal messages—are permitted under current law.
Legal Context
The move follows litigation involving the IRS and a religious broadcasting group.
In that case, federal officials argued that certain communications made within a house of worship, such as messages shared with congregants during services, should not be treated as prohibited political activity.
Officials said these internal communications differ from broader political campaigning directed at the public.
The case was dismissed by a federal district court before a resolution could be formally adopted.
Agency Perspective
“Religious liberty is foundational to our Constitution, and the freedom to practice one’s faith openly and in community is central to the American story,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Officials said the updated guidance will reflect constitutional protections for religious exercise while maintaining the framework of existing tax law.
Next Steps
The Treasury Department and IRS said they will engage with stakeholders as they develop the guidance.
A timeline for issuing the updated rules has not yet been announced.
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