Nonprofit status

Let Children Play Now, depending on what type of nonprofit they set up, might not be able to actively campaign in the upcoming election. Which could make yesterday's supposition irrelevant (see below), although it's still, in my opinion, a spirited read.

If LCPN chooses to become a 501(c)3, the most popular type of nonprofit under federal code, using its funds for lobbying purposes could be difficult, if not illegal. According to a local expert on nonprofit business and accounting, they could still engage in "educational" effort. But these activities would have to be reported to the government during tax time, as nonprofits are supposed to operate "pretty much above board."

It will be interesting to see how this group organizes itself, what classification it files taxes under and who is on the board of directors. Not to mention where its funding comes from, if it has any at all.

Regardless of what happens, LCPN play to become a bigger player in the local political landscape could have quite an impact (or, depending on its funding and organization, absolutely none at all). Welcome to the Tracy exurban jungle.