Religious Freedom, Church/State and Tax Legislation
The USCCB is concerned with legislation and policies that impact on church-state relations. In particular, the USCCB has an interest in legislation that protects religious freedom, limits government intrusion into religious matters and allows for reasonable collaboration between public and religious entities. The USCCB carefully monitors any legislation or policies dealing with the regulation of tax exempt entities. Legislation which creates incentives for charitable giving and public assistance for programs carried out by church-related entities are also of particular interest to the Conference.
Legislative Issues in the 110th Congress:
Conscience Protection; Religious Integrity Issues
Support legislation to protect both the identity and integrity of religious entities partnering with government to provide health education and social services.
Political Activity
Monitor legislation to address political activity by churches and religious organizations.
Public Policy Advocacy Restrictions on Nonprofit Organizations
Oppose legislation that would create unreasonable restrictions on public policy/advocacy activities of churches or other non-profit entities
Religious Liberty
Explore any opportunity for Congressional consideration of legislation protecting the religious freedom rights of churches.
Reporting Requirements
Oppose legislation to change churches exemptions from annual information returns to the Internal Revenue Service as well as other possible government oversight of religious organizations.
Same-Sex Unions
Monitor legislative proposals to define marriage as consisiting only of the union of a man and a woman.
Tax Policy Affecting Charitable Contributions
Support legislation to increase incentives for charitable giving.