General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Should Churches Be Taxed? [View all]branford
(4,462 posts)A fact which apparently few people realize.
Moreover, if the standard was "political opinions," rather than campaigning, the resultant mess would huge. The government would be (unconstitutionally) forced to decided what religious opinions are impermissible religious opinions. More importantly, every liberal organization who stated political opinions would also have to be taxed. Say goodbye to Planned Parenthood, environmental groups, etc.
Under the First Amendment, there is virtually no way to single out religious organizations and treat them differently than similarly situated secular organization. In fact, the First Amendment provides unique and greater protection to religious belief and expression.
As a general rule, if you want churches taxed, you need to accept the reality that virtually all secular and liberal charitable and related organizations will also be taxed.