Morse Code, Da Vinci Code, Tax Code and ... Churches: An Historical and Constitutional Analysis of Why Section 501(c)(3) Does Not Apply to Churches

Authors

Jennifer M. Smith, Florida A&M University College of LawFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Winter 2007

Abstract

This article is about the United States federal tax code and churches. In particular, it discusses the interplay between section 501(c)(3) and churches in America. Section II presents a background of the history of the tax exemption for churches and the judicial holdings relative to that exemption. Section III explores the historical development of the separation between church and state, tax exemptions, and section 501(c)(3). Section V analyzes section 501(c)(3) under the Constitution's free speech and religion clauses. Section V proposes a recommendation, and Section VI is the conclusion.

Recommended Citation

Jennifer M. Smith, Morse Code, Da Vinci Code, Tax Code and ... Churches: An Historical and Constitutional Analysis of Why Section 501(c)(3) Does Not Apply to Churches, 23 J.L. & Pol. 41 (2007)