CNPS Guidelines on Lobbying, Legislation, Elections, Etc. In return for its tax-exempt status, CNPS must conform with laws and regulations which limit its involvement in political and legislative activities. Adherence to these laws is crucial to maintaining our tax-exempt status. Under both state and federal rules CNPS may not take part in elections, either partisan or non-partisan. We may not endorse candidates, oppose candidates, nor make financial contributions to candidates, either before or after their election.
Legislation includes referenda and initiatives.
Thus, testimony regarding purposes or results of specific bills which are within CNPS' area of expertise is appropriate and not subject to the limits on influencing legislation. Regulatory bodies which make rules, policies, or decisions are not considered legislative bodies. Therefore testimony before them or attempts to influence their decisions are not attempts to influence legislation and are not limited. This distinction is probably most important to CNPS in the land-use planning area. CNPS support of candidates for appointment to such boards, based on their qualifications or expertise, does not violate the prohibition on participating in electoral politics.