Nonprofit Advocacy Matters Archive

Landmark Bill to Strengthen Nonprofit-Government Partnership Introduced

Last week, Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN) introduced the Nonprofit Sector and Community Solutions Act (H.R. 5533), a bill designed to transform the way the federal government thinks about and deals with the charitable nonprofit community in the United States. At a news conference announcing the bill's introduction, held in conjunction with the National Council's Lobby Day on Wednesday, McCollum stated, "This legislation is the beginning of a new, positive conversation about the nonprofit sector in Washington and across the country. If Congress can work with leaders in the nonprofit and foundation communities we can build a stronger nonprofit sector, craft smarter federal policy, and create more vibrant communities in every state." Tim Delaney, president and CEO of the National Council, stated at the news conference, "Congresswoman McCollum recognizes the vital role nonprofits play in communities across America and the essential need to strengthen the partnership between government and nonprofits in order to deliver vital services, build capacity, enhance accountability, and save taxpayers money."

The legislation, which is strongly endorsed by the National Council, would strengthen America's communities by making the federal government a more productive partner with nonprofit organizations by establishing 1) better communication with the federal government, 2) better coordination within government, and 3) enhanced data collection and research. Leaders of State Associations of nonprofits from across the country attended the press conference to show their support. Other organizations speaking at the press conference in support of this historic legislation were America Forward, the American Association of Museums, ARNOVA (Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action), Independent Sector, and the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits - the home state of the bill's sponsor. Read more about the new bill and how you can take action on the National Council's website.

Annual IRS Filing: Continue Encouraging Nonprofits to File the Form 990-N

Although the May 17 filing deadline has passed, the IRS has indicated it will continue to accept 990-Ns filed by smaller organizations that have not filed in the past three years and are at risk of losing their tax-exempt status through automatic revocation. Please spread the work and share this new resource from the National Council about state and federal annual filing obligations for all nonprofits, even those with under $25,000 in annual gross receipts.

Spring Legislative Agenda

With only six weeks remaining until Memorial Day recess, legislators have perhaps their last and best chance to reach bi-partisan agreement on major bills before the election season is fully upon them. The following provides a synopsis of key bills we are following: