Know My Rights
It is your legal right to:
1. Take this guide with you into the election booth (See Title 6 of the Election Code).
2. Distribute this guide anywhere, including churches or other nonprofit organizations
Churches & Elections - What is the Law?
Many churches and pastors feel called by Scripture to equip the saints to represent Christ in all areas of our society, including the voting booth. Pastors should thus be supported in their goal of helping their members be good stewards in their civic duties. This is especially important in light of the fact that only one out of every four Christians in America is votes.
Unfortunately, many churches and pastors have been given false information about their rights. The law is actually very supportive of pastors and churches in fulfilling their mission to equip their congregations. Even as a non-profit corporation, there is very little a church may not do.
Churches may not:
1. Endorse or oppose a particular candidate.
2. Contribute to or raise money for a candidate (including free use of a church list)
Churches may (among other activities):
1. Register their members to vote
2. Pass out Voters' Guides
3. Invite all candidates in a race to speak (O.K. if only one shows up)
4. Speak directly on specific issues and legislation (abortion, marriage, etc.)
Individually, a pastor can do whatever he feels led to do: endorse, support a member's campaign, etc. There are no limitations. The few limitations above that exist are only for the Church entity and only if the Church is a non-profit corporation.
Churches with questions regarding their rights for distribution of this guide should call Liberty Institute’s Legal Division at 972-941-4444.
