Phoenix Humanists claiming tax break to challenge tax code exemption for churches

[TexasTowelie]

The Humanist Society of Greater Phoenix has decided to take aim at part of the federal tax code that gives members of the clergy special tax exemptions that the group feels should also apply to it.

The tax code provision in question allows churches to give their pastors housing allowances or use of a church-owned home tax-free. Critics have said it has allowed for mega-churches to exclude millions of dollars from their pastors’ taxable income, since there is no limit in the tax code.

Now, the Humanist Society of Greater Phoenix is looking to use the same exemption in the wake of a recent court ruling that shot down a different organization’s push to challenge the tax code.

“We perform a lot of the same functions that churches do,” Executive Director Luke Douglas told Arizona Mirror. “This case is about starting a conversation.”

Read more: https://www.azmirror.com/2019/07/19/phoenix-humanists-to-claim-tax-break-to-tax-code/

[raccoon]

1. This is something I can get behind. NT

[3Hotdogs]

2. But doesn't God need our money?

How is he gonna afford his morning Starbucks?

[in2herbs]

3. I think this is a great idea. If you're doing the same work as church/religion why

shouldn't you get the same tax breaks? Congress is either going to have to expand the non-payment tax privilege to include these organizations -- and lose income --- or start taxing the church. It will take a few years for an outcome but I can't wait to see what happens.