Keystone kleptos - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "Keystone kleptos
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
The Pennsylvania General Assembly is not as ineffectual as its reputation suggests.
With impressive ingenuity and yet monumental modesty beyond its respective districts, the Legislature's bipartisan leadership deftly created a funding mechanism for favored nonprofit organizations that redefines incestuous and gives Pennsylvanians a new appreciation for the principled statecraft of banana republics.
At least six legislators earmarked about $29 million to nonprofits they created, control or are associated with, which, coincidently, help them politically."
Thursday, April 27, 2006
kare11.com :: KARE 11 TV - Attorney General: Blue Cross has too much green
kare11.com :: KARE 11 TV - Attorney General: Blue Cross has too much green: "Attorney General: Blue Cross has too much green
The 'Blues' are awash in green, according to Attorney General Mike Hatch. In his review of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hatch accuses the company of stockpiling cash at a time that many Minnesotans have been priced out of the insurance market by high premiums.
'What they ought to be doing is taking this money, refunding it back to the policy holders,' Hatch told KARE 11 Wednesday.
Hatch's staff provided KARE- 11 an advance copy of the full report due to be released officially today. It's the latest in a series of audits of health insurance companies and providers conducted by the Attorney General's staff beginning in 2000.
"
The 'Blues' are awash in green, according to Attorney General Mike Hatch. In his review of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hatch accuses the company of stockpiling cash at a time that many Minnesotans have been priced out of the insurance market by high premiums.
'What they ought to be doing is taking this money, refunding it back to the policy holders,' Hatch told KARE 11 Wednesday.
Hatch's staff provided KARE- 11 an advance copy of the full report due to be released officially today. It's the latest in a series of audits of health insurance companies and providers conducted by the Attorney General's staff beginning in 2000.
"
sweet: Sweet column: House takes up lame ethics bill today. Even weak bill would have disclosed Bobby Rush $1m link to company he regulates.
sweet: Sweet column: House takes up lame ethics bill today. Even weak bill would have disclosed Bobby Rush $1m link to company he regulates.: "Sweet column: House takes up lame ethics bill today. Even weak bill would have disclosed Bobby Rush $1m link to company he regulates.
UPDATE from when I filed today's column (click below).
Late last night, the GOP House leadership rebuffed attempts to but some meat on the ethics and lobby bill bone. I'll post more on this later.
Today's column
Under ethics legislation up for a vote today, the cozy, $1million relationship between the charitable arm of phone giant SBC/AT&T and Rep. Bobby Rush, the only Democrat co-sponsoring the rewrite of a telecommunications bill, would have to be made public."
UPDATE from when I filed today's column (click below).
Late last night, the GOP House leadership rebuffed attempts to but some meat on the ethics and lobby bill bone. I'll post more on this later.
Today's column
Under ethics legislation up for a vote today, the cozy, $1million relationship between the charitable arm of phone giant SBC/AT&T and Rep. Bobby Rush, the only Democrat co-sponsoring the rewrite of a telecommunications bill, would have to be made public."
CNN.com - Senators: 'Bumbling' FEMA must go - Apr 27, 2006
CNN.com - Senators: 'Bumbling' FEMA must go - Apr 27, 2006: "Senators: 'Bumbling' FEMA must go
Panel finds disaster agency beyond repair
Thursday, April 27, 2006; Posted: 2:21 p.m. EDT (18:21 GMT)
Our first and most important recommendation is to abolish FEMA," said Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, chairwoman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. "FEMA is discredited, demoralized, and dysfunctional. It is beyond repair. Just tweaking the organizational chart will not solve the problem."
Panel finds disaster agency beyond repair
Thursday, April 27, 2006; Posted: 2:21 p.m. EDT (18:21 GMT)
Our first and most important recommendation is to abolish FEMA," said Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, chairwoman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. "FEMA is discredited, demoralized, and dysfunctional. It is beyond repair. Just tweaking the organizational chart will not solve the problem."
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Poker News - Charity Poker Bill Fails to Pass in Louisiana by Two Votes
Poker News - Charity Poker Bill Fails to Pass in Louisiana by Two Votes: "Charity Poker Bill Fails to Pass in Louisiana by Two Votes
Sponsor Can Try to Pass His Bill Later This Session
by Bob Pajich
For charity or not, poker tournaments outside of casinos remain illegal in Louisiana today after a bill failed to pass the House by two votes Monday."
Sponsor Can Try to Pass His Bill Later This Session
by Bob Pajich
For charity or not, poker tournaments outside of casinos remain illegal in Louisiana today after a bill failed to pass the House by two votes Monday."
Monday, April 24, 2006
As federal funds dry up, so do our communities - The Honolulu Advertiser
As federal funds dry up, so do our communities - The Honolulu Advertiser: "NONPROFITS
As federal funds dry up, so do our communities
By Kelvin Taketa
Our nation's social programs are undoubtedly feeling the impact of the recent federal spending cuts enacted by the fiscal year 2006 appropriations process, and are bracing for the possibility of bigger cuts in the future. With the myth that government cutbacks can be made up by increased private contributions still prevalent among our elected leaders at all levels, there is growing concern over the effect that these priority shifts over the years will have on sustaining safe communities, good health and equal opportunity for everyone."
As federal funds dry up, so do our communities
By Kelvin Taketa
Our nation's social programs are undoubtedly feeling the impact of the recent federal spending cuts enacted by the fiscal year 2006 appropriations process, and are bracing for the possibility of bigger cuts in the future. With the myth that government cutbacks can be made up by increased private contributions still prevalent among our elected leaders at all levels, there is growing concern over the effect that these priority shifts over the years will have on sustaining safe communities, good health and equal opportunity for everyone."
Friday, April 21, 2006
HIV-AIDS Agency at Risk Of Losing Funds for the Poor
HIV-AIDS Agency at Risk Of Losing Funds for the Poor: "HIV-AIDS Agency at Risk Of Losing Funds for the Poor
Interfaith Caregivers Can't Afford to Administer Program
By Nikita Stewart
Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, April 21, 2006; Page B03
A nonprofit agency that has provided critical services for 15 years to Prince William County residents living with HIV and AIDS is struggling financially, threatening benefits for those who cannot afford or get access to care.
The agency's difficulties are similar to those of other nonprofits in the Washington area that receive federal money every year to provide transportation, food, dental care and other services to thousands of HIV-AIDS patients. The federal dollars are there to spend, but the small nonprofits do not have enough time or staff to administer the program."
Interfaith Caregivers Can't Afford to Administer Program
By Nikita Stewart
Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, April 21, 2006; Page B03
A nonprofit agency that has provided critical services for 15 years to Prince William County residents living with HIV and AIDS is struggling financially, threatening benefits for those who cannot afford or get access to care.
The agency's difficulties are similar to those of other nonprofits in the Washington area that receive federal money every year to provide transportation, food, dental care and other services to thousands of HIV-AIDS patients. The federal dollars are there to spend, but the small nonprofits do not have enough time or staff to administer the program."
AP Wire | 04/21/2006 | Governor signs land conservation bill into law
AP Wire | 04/21/2006 | Governor signs land conservation bill into law: "Governor signs land conservation bill into law
GREG BLUESTEIN
Associated Press
ATLANTA - Private landowners and corporations would get income tax credits for preserving undeveloped property under a bill signed into law Friday by Gov. Sonny Perdue.
Perdue also signed legislation that imposes stricter penalties on litterbugs by lengthening the maximum prison sentence for those convicted of 'egregious' littering to five years and requiring offenders to buy an ad with their name and address in the local paper."
GREG BLUESTEIN
Associated Press
ATLANTA - Private landowners and corporations would get income tax credits for preserving undeveloped property under a bill signed into law Friday by Gov. Sonny Perdue.
Perdue also signed legislation that imposes stricter penalties on litterbugs by lengthening the maximum prison sentence for those convicted of 'egregious' littering to five years and requiring offenders to buy an ad with their name and address in the local paper."
DesMoinesRegister.com
DesMoinesRegister.com: "Enact new safeguards over public money
Inspector general not necessary, though.
April 20, 2006
It's possible something good could come of the scandal over excessive salaries and bonuses paid to top executives of a Des Moines-based job-training agency. That is if the Legislature uses the experience to demand more accountability for agencies that spend government money.
A bill being drafted in the House this week, which likely will be debated early next week, would set new standards for agencies that spend state and federal money. The new requirements that are expected to be included in the bill set reasonable standards that would be useful guides for any public or private organization. Before nonprofit organizations or local-government consortiums - such as the Central Iowa Employment and Training Consortium - receive public money, they would have to have the following policies in place:"
Inspector general not necessary, though.
April 20, 2006
It's possible something good could come of the scandal over excessive salaries and bonuses paid to top executives of a Des Moines-based job-training agency. That is if the Legislature uses the experience to demand more accountability for agencies that spend government money.
A bill being drafted in the House this week, which likely will be debated early next week, would set new standards for agencies that spend state and federal money. The new requirements that are expected to be included in the bill set reasonable standards that would be useful guides for any public or private organization. Before nonprofit organizations or local-government consortiums - such as the Central Iowa Employment and Training Consortium - receive public money, they would have to have the following policies in place:"
My opinion Jim Kiser: Changing the estate tax draws rich opposition | www.azstarnet.com ®
My opinion Jim Kiser: Changing the estate tax draws rich opposition | www.azstarnet.com ®: "Opinion
My opinion Jim Kiser: Changing the estate tax draws rich opposition
Tucson, Arizona | Published: 04.21.2006
advertisement
There's an old saying, sometimes attributed to Andrew Carnegie, 'From shirt sleeves to shirt sleeves in three generations.'
The idea is that the first generation, often immigrants to the United States in the late 1800s, rolled up their shirt sleeves, worked hard and amassed vast fortunes. However, the pampered heirs to their estates, never having acquired the discipline that comes from having to work for a living, squandered the fortunes. Consequently, their sons and daughters, the third generation, were forced to return to rolled-up shirt sleeves and hard work."
My opinion Jim Kiser: Changing the estate tax draws rich opposition
Tucson, Arizona | Published: 04.21.2006
advertisement
There's an old saying, sometimes attributed to Andrew Carnegie, 'From shirt sleeves to shirt sleeves in three generations.'
The idea is that the first generation, often immigrants to the United States in the late 1800s, rolled up their shirt sleeves, worked hard and amassed vast fortunes. However, the pampered heirs to their estates, never having acquired the discipline that comes from having to work for a living, squandered the fortunes. Consequently, their sons and daughters, the third generation, were forced to return to rolled-up shirt sleeves and hard work."
Thursday, April 20, 2006
The Crimson White Online - Student to lobby Congress for tax break to help greek houses
The Crimson White Online - Student to lobby Congress for tax break to help greek houses: "Student to lobby Congress for tax break to help greek houses
Legislation would make donations to greek housing tax-deductible
By Alexandra Battito
Staff Reporter
April 20, 2006
Move over, illegal immigration. A national delegation of greek college students has a new issue its taking to Congress next week - tax-deductible donations for greek housing.
John Cochran, a senior and former president of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity, will join other fraternity and sorority members from across the country in Washington, D.C. next week to lobby for the Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act."
Legislation would make donations to greek housing tax-deductible
By Alexandra Battito
Staff Reporter
April 20, 2006
Move over, illegal immigration. A national delegation of greek college students has a new issue its taking to Congress next week - tax-deductible donations for greek housing.
John Cochran, a senior and former president of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity, will join other fraternity and sorority members from across the country in Washington, D.C. next week to lobby for the Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act."
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Quad-Cities Online-Moline may allow gambling fundraisers for nonprofits
Quad-Cities Online: "Moline may allow gambling fundraisers for nonprofits
By Dawn Neuses, dneuses@qconline.com
Bobb Chiropractic
How chiropractic can help you
MOLINE -- Aldermen may consider allowing non-profit groups to offer certain games -- now considered gambling in Moline -- as fundraisers.
After a discussion Tuesday, the city council's committee-of-the-whole decided it would like the city attorney to draft a new ordinance that would mirror state law and allow non-profits to hold games such as the poker game Texas Hold'em."
By Dawn Neuses, dneuses@qconline.com
Bobb Chiropractic
How chiropractic can help you
MOLINE -- Aldermen may consider allowing non-profit groups to offer certain games -- now considered gambling in Moline -- as fundraisers.
After a discussion Tuesday, the city council's committee-of-the-whole decided it would like the city attorney to draft a new ordinance that would mirror state law and allow non-profits to hold games such as the poker game Texas Hold'em."
Not-for-profit organizations mount challenge to accountability act
Not-for-profit organizations mount challenge to accountability act: "Not-for-profit organizations mount challenge to accountability act
Jennifer Ditchburn, Canadian Press
Published: Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Article tools
OTTAWA (CP) - Not all lobbyists are created equal.
At least that's the position of Canada's not-for-profit organizations.
They think they're being unfairly lumped together with the corporate world in the Conservative government's Federal Accountability Act.
The act, tabled in the House of Commons last week with much fanfare, would prohibit ministers and senior officials from lobbying the government for five years after leaving office."
Jennifer Ditchburn, Canadian Press
Published: Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Article tools
OTTAWA (CP) - Not all lobbyists are created equal.
At least that's the position of Canada's not-for-profit organizations.
They think they're being unfairly lumped together with the corporate world in the Conservative government's Federal Accountability Act.
The act, tabled in the House of Commons last week with much fanfare, would prohibit ministers and senior officials from lobbying the government for five years after leaving office."
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Filmmakers and Others Petition Against Smithsonian's Showtime Deal - New York Times
Filmmakers and Others Petition Against Smithsonian's Showtime Deal - New York Times: "Filmmakers and Others Petition Against Smithsonian's Showtime Deal
Article Tools Sponsored By
By LORNE MANLY
Published: April 18, 2006
As the recent coupling between the Smithsonian Institution and Showtime Networks continues to roil the documentary film world, more than 215 filmmakers, television executives and academics have signed a letter demanding that the Smithsonian, a publicly financed museum, not only reveal financial details of the joint venture but also abandon it"
Article Tools Sponsored By
By LORNE MANLY
Published: April 18, 2006
As the recent coupling between the Smithsonian Institution and Showtime Networks continues to roil the documentary film world, more than 215 filmmakers, television executives and academics have signed a letter demanding that the Smithsonian, a publicly financed museum, not only reveal financial details of the joint venture but also abandon it"
AP Wire | 04/18/2006 | Head of White House religious charity efforts to lead Pa. college
AP Wire | 04/18/2006 | Head of White House religious charity efforts to lead Pa. college: "Head of White House religious charity efforts to lead Pa. college
Associated Press
WASHINGTON - The head of the White House office of faith-based and community initiatives resigned to become president of St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Pa."
Associated Press
WASHINGTON - The head of the White House office of faith-based and community initiatives resigned to become president of St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Pa."
Nonprofits seek say - 2006-04-17
Nonprofits seek say - 2006-04-17: "Nonprofits seek say
Puget Sound Business Journal (Seattle) - April 14, 2006
by Clay Holtzman
Staff Writer
Washington nonprofit organizations are rallying to claim their place at the policymaking table, something they say was largely denied during last year's late-inning push to reform state regulations.
A collection of nonprofits recently forwarded a letter to Secretary of State Sam Reed expressing willingness to be tapped for input as work progresses on revising the state's charitable solicitations act and the charitable trusts act ahead of next January's legislative session."
Puget Sound Business Journal (Seattle) - April 14, 2006
by Clay Holtzman
Staff Writer
Washington nonprofit organizations are rallying to claim their place at the policymaking table, something they say was largely denied during last year's late-inning push to reform state regulations.
A collection of nonprofits recently forwarded a letter to Secretary of State Sam Reed expressing willingness to be tapped for input as work progresses on revising the state's charitable solicitations act and the charitable trusts act ahead of next January's legislative session."
Monday, April 17, 2006
The Chronicle, 4/14/2006: Bush, Cheney Release Information About Charitable Donations
The Chronicle, 4/14/2006: Bush, Cheney Release Information About Charitable Donations: "Bush, Cheney Release Information About Charitable Donations
By Grant Williams
Washington
President Bush and Vice President Cheney and their wives have released information about their contributions to charities last year.
President Bush and the first lady, Laura Bush, gave a total of $75,560 to churches and charitable organizations, some of which were involved in disaster relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina. The Bush gifts represented 12 percent of their taxable income of $618,694.
Vice President Cheney and his wife, Lynne Cheney, donated $6,869,655 to three organizations from the exercise of stock options and from Mrs. Cheney's book royalties."
By Grant Williams
Washington
President Bush and Vice President Cheney and their wives have released information about their contributions to charities last year.
President Bush and the first lady, Laura Bush, gave a total of $75,560 to churches and charitable organizations, some of which were involved in disaster relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina. The Bush gifts represented 12 percent of their taxable income of $618,694.
Vice President Cheney and his wife, Lynne Cheney, donated $6,869,655 to three organizations from the exercise of stock options and from Mrs. Cheney's book royalties."
USATODAY.com - Campaigning from the pulpit: Why not?
USATODAY.com - Campaigning from the pulpit: Why not?: "Campaigning from the pulpit: Why not?
Posted 4/16/2006 8:58 PM ET E-mail | Save | Print | Subscribe to stories like this
Religious leaders have long tried to sway their congregants to take sides in political battles. That might offend some, but believers, not the state, should decide when faithful activism crosses the line, says a Notre Dame law professor.
Enlarge By Web Bryant, USA TODAY
Religious leaders have long tried to sway their congregants to take sides in political battles. That might offend some, but believers, not the state, should decide when faithful activism crosses the line, says a Notre Dame law professor.
By Richard W. Garnett
Does politics have a place in the pulpit? Should places of worship be homes for engaged and unsettling activism — or tranquil havens, sealed off from the rough-and-tumble of today's bitter partisan debates?
These questions are both cutting-edge and perennial. Just a few weeks ago, the Roman Catholic archbishop of Los Angeles proclaimed that the duty to care for vulnerable immigrants might trump the obligation to comply with restrictive immigration laws. Earlier this year — and again last week — dozens of ministers in Ohio complained to the IRS about two prominent evangelical pastors they say crossed the line between tax-exempt religious activities and partisan political campaigning. And the Sunday before the 2004 election, the pastor of a liberal congregation in Pasadena, Calif., raised eyebrows by delivering a hard-hitting anti-war sermon that criticized President Bush sharply and directly.
Of course, none of this is new."
Posted 4/16/2006 8:58 PM ET E-mail | Save | Print | Subscribe to stories like this
Religious leaders have long tried to sway their congregants to take sides in political battles. That might offend some, but believers, not the state, should decide when faithful activism crosses the line, says a Notre Dame law professor.
Enlarge By Web Bryant, USA TODAY
Religious leaders have long tried to sway their congregants to take sides in political battles. That might offend some, but believers, not the state, should decide when faithful activism crosses the line, says a Notre Dame law professor.
By Richard W. Garnett
Does politics have a place in the pulpit? Should places of worship be homes for engaged and unsettling activism — or tranquil havens, sealed off from the rough-and-tumble of today's bitter partisan debates?
These questions are both cutting-edge and perennial. Just a few weeks ago, the Roman Catholic archbishop of Los Angeles proclaimed that the duty to care for vulnerable immigrants might trump the obligation to comply with restrictive immigration laws. Earlier this year — and again last week — dozens of ministers in Ohio complained to the IRS about two prominent evangelical pastors they say crossed the line between tax-exempt religious activities and partisan political campaigning. And the Sunday before the 2004 election, the pastor of a liberal congregation in Pasadena, Calif., raised eyebrows by delivering a hard-hitting anti-war sermon that criticized President Bush sharply and directly.
Of course, none of this is new."
adn.com | anchorage : Unitarian church volunteers city tax payment
PILOT program's
adn.com | anchorage : Unitarian church volunteers city tax payment: "Unitarian church volunteers city tax payment
UNITARIAN: Congregation has made payment since '60s for using municipal services.
By ANNE AURAND
Anchorage Daily News
Published: April 17, 2006
Last Modified: April 17, 2006 at 02:28 AM
A lot of people finagle ways to trim their tax bills.
The Unitarians in Anchorage pay ext"
adn.com | anchorage : Unitarian church volunteers city tax payment: "Unitarian church volunteers city tax payment
UNITARIAN: Congregation has made payment since '60s for using municipal services.
By ANNE AURAND
Anchorage Daily News
Published: April 17, 2006
Last Modified: April 17, 2006 at 02:28 AM
A lot of people finagle ways to trim their tax bills.
The Unitarians in Anchorage pay ext"
Booker sues James on nonprofit groups
Booker sues James on nonprofit groups: "Booker sues James on nonprofit groups
Friday, April 14, 2006
BY KATIE WANG
Star-Ledger Staff
Newark mayoral hopeful Cory Booker and his slate of seven city council candidates filed suit against Mayor Sharpe James over a pair of controversial nonprofit groups that were hastily formed last month."
Friday, April 14, 2006
BY KATIE WANG
Star-Ledger Staff
Newark mayoral hopeful Cory Booker and his slate of seven city council candidates filed suit against Mayor Sharpe James over a pair of controversial nonprofit groups that were hastily formed last month."
Thursday, April 13, 2006
The State | 04/13/2006 | Use license tags to identify cars, not raise money
The State | 04/13/2006 | Use license tags to identify cars, not raise money: "Use license tags to identify cars, not raise money
THE LAST TIME we tried to make this point, people who didn’t want to hear it jammed their fingers in their ears and started screaming “anti-Confederate flag bigots” — even though our point had nothing to do with the flag.
So now that the issue is back before us once again — this time in the context of several somewhat less divisive organizations — we’ll try again: The government of South Carolina has no business becoming a fund-raiser and bill collector for private organizations."
THE LAST TIME we tried to make this point, people who didn’t want to hear it jammed their fingers in their ears and started screaming “anti-Confederate flag bigots” — even though our point had nothing to do with the flag.
So now that the issue is back before us once again — this time in the context of several somewhat less divisive organizations — we’ll try again: The government of South Carolina has no business becoming a fund-raiser and bill collector for private organizations."
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
HometownAnnapolis.com, Government - Assembly gives OK to a partial ban on panhandling
HometownAnnapolis.com, Government - Assembly gives OK to a partial ban on panhandling: "Assembly gives OK to a partial ban on panhandling
By KATIE ARCIERI, Staff Writer
The General Assembly passed sweeping legislation Monday night that allows the county to ban minors from roadside solicitation, a move officials say is the first step to solving a growing safety issue.
The measure, passed 138-0 by the House of Delegates and 30-5 by the Senate, must first be signed by Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr.. The next bill signing is set for two weeks from now.
'It has certainly been a long time coming,' said County Councilman Cathleen M. Vitale, R-Severna Park. 'I certainly hope the governor would find it an important enough issue to sign it ... Now that we have the tool, we can move forward.'"
By KATIE ARCIERI, Staff Writer
The General Assembly passed sweeping legislation Monday night that allows the county to ban minors from roadside solicitation, a move officials say is the first step to solving a growing safety issue.
The measure, passed 138-0 by the House of Delegates and 30-5 by the Senate, must first be signed by Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr.. The next bill signing is set for two weeks from now.
'It has certainly been a long time coming,' said County Councilman Cathleen M. Vitale, R-Severna Park. 'I certainly hope the governor would find it an important enough issue to sign it ... Now that we have the tool, we can move forward.'"
Groups begin estate-tax drive - Nation/Politics - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper
Groups begin estate-tax drive - Nation/Politics - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper: "Advocacy groups are starting to campaign aggressively with advertisements, polls and other tactics ahead of a Senate vote next month on legislation to repeal the estate tax.
The Free Enterprise Fund (FEF) will begin targeting Arkansas Democratic senators today with a television ad featuring vultures eating carcasses. It warns, 'When the vultures circle, it means they've come to take their share of your savings. The death tax can rip away 55 percent of what you save for your loved ones.'"
The Free Enterprise Fund (FEF) will begin targeting Arkansas Democratic senators today with a television ad featuring vultures eating carcasses. It warns, 'When the vultures circle, it means they've come to take their share of your savings. The death tax can rip away 55 percent of what you save for your loved ones.'"
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Americans donate and volunteer a lot for good causes abroad - Atlantic Review
Americans donate and volunteer a lot for good causes abroad - Atlantic Review: "While it is well known that past and present U.S. governments spend much less on foreign aid as a percentage of GDP than most other rich countries do, the enormous amount of private aid is less well known outside the U.S. The State Department summarizes a new study:
The U.S. private sector donates to international causes at a level nearly four times the amount spent by the U.S. government on official development assistance (ODA), according to a report about to be published by the Hudson Institute’s Center for Global Prosperity. Called the Index on Global Philanthropy, the report tallies $71 billion in international donations by U.S. private charities, religious organizations, universities, corporations, foundations, and immigrants sending money home for the year of 2004 (the latest year available). That compares to $20 billion in government foreign aid for the same year. (...) "
The U.S. private sector donates to international causes at a level nearly four times the amount spent by the U.S. government on official development assistance (ODA), according to a report about to be published by the Hudson Institute’s Center for Global Prosperity. Called the Index on Global Philanthropy, the report tallies $71 billion in international donations by U.S. private charities, religious organizations, universities, corporations, foundations, and immigrants sending money home for the year of 2004 (the latest year available). That compares to $20 billion in government foreign aid for the same year. (...) "
Monday, April 10, 2006
AP Wire | 04/09/2006 | Charities battle to stay alive on state tax forms
AP Wire | 04/09/2006 | Charities battle to stay alive on state tax forms: "Charities battle to stay alive on state tax forms
ANN SANNER
Associated Press
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - People devoted to fighting multiple sclerosis are sending out letters, posting notices online and contacting accountants to spread the word that taxpayers can donate money to MS by checking a box on Illinois income tax forms.
If the cause gets less than $100,000 in donations, it will be dropped from the next tax form - a very real possibility. Taxpayers donated only $127,000 last year, and this time MS is competing with a record-high number of causes seeking taxpayer support.
All 17 of the charities are trying to reach the $100,000 threshold and remain in the checkoff program."
ANN SANNER
Associated Press
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - People devoted to fighting multiple sclerosis are sending out letters, posting notices online and contacting accountants to spread the word that taxpayers can donate money to MS by checking a box on Illinois income tax forms.
If the cause gets less than $100,000 in donations, it will be dropped from the next tax form - a very real possibility. Taxpayers donated only $127,000 last year, and this time MS is competing with a record-high number of causes seeking taxpayer support.
All 17 of the charities are trying to reach the $100,000 threshold and remain in the checkoff program."
adn.com | opinion : Tuition troubles {Worthy idea Dividend donor check-offs}
adn.com | opinion : Tuition troubles: "Worthy idea
Dividend donor check-offs
The premise is that Alaskans would donate more of their Permanent Fund dividends to nonprofits if it were as easy as checking a box on their annual application.
Sounds like an idea worth pursuing, which is exactly what the Legislature is doing."
Dividend donor check-offs
The premise is that Alaskans would donate more of their Permanent Fund dividends to nonprofits if it were as easy as checking a box on their annual application.
Sounds like an idea worth pursuing, which is exactly what the Legislature is doing."
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Pending federal law would tighten oversight of nonprofits - Yahoo! News
Pending federal law would tighten oversight of nonprofits - Yahoo! News: "The federal government is trying to make it easier for charitable organizations to receive money while at the same time making sure that money is being used correctly.
ADVERTISEMENT
With approximately 9,000 non-profit organizations in the San Diego County region, the long-anticipated legislation could have a significant local impact"
ADVERTISEMENT
With approximately 9,000 non-profit organizations in the San Diego County region, the long-anticipated legislation could have a significant local impact"
Friday, April 07, 2006
Community Newswire UK-GOVERNMENT LOBBIED OVER CHARITIES BILL
Community Newswire: "GOVERNMENT LOBBIED OVER CHARITIES BILL
By Rosamond Hutt, Community Newswire
SOCIAL Charities, 07 Apr 2006 - 17:11
Charity chiefs were today lobbying Home Secretary Charles Clarke over concerns a draft law will not force charitable organisations which charge high fees for their services to prove they are benefiting the entire community.
Chief executives from six leading charities - the British Red Cross, Citizens Advice, NCVO, Leonard Cheshire, RNID and Help the Aged - wrote to Mr Clarke today calling on him to clarify a clause in the Charities Bill.
They want the legislation redrafted to ensure all organisations are obliged to show they exist to benefit the public in the same way before they can be granted charitable status."
By Rosamond Hutt, Community Newswire
SOCIAL Charities, 07 Apr 2006 - 17:11
Charity chiefs were today lobbying Home Secretary Charles Clarke over concerns a draft law will not force charitable organisations which charge high fees for their services to prove they are benefiting the entire community.
Chief executives from six leading charities - the British Red Cross, Citizens Advice, NCVO, Leonard Cheshire, RNID and Help the Aged - wrote to Mr Clarke today calling on him to clarify a clause in the Charities Bill.
They want the legislation redrafted to ensure all organisations are obliged to show they exist to benefit the public in the same way before they can be granted charitable status."
Pauls Valley, OK, Pauls Valley Daily Democrat - Paddack, Hilliard bill encourages charitable giving
Pauls Valley, OK, Pauls Valley Daily Democrat - Paddack, Hilliard bill encourages charitable giving: "Paddack, Hilliard bill encourages charitable giving
Legislation to encourage charitable contributions to community service organizations recently won unanimous approval in the House Tax and Revenue Committee.
Senate Bill 1537, by State Rep. Wes Hilliard and State Sen. Susan Paddack (D-Ada), creates a community development tax credit to encourage citizens to invest in organizations that are committed to strengthening their communities.
Under the bill, corporations or individuals located in rural areas of Oklahoma-those areas that have a population of 15,000 or less receive a 70 percent tax credit based on the total amount given and corporations or individuals located in an urban are will receive a 50 percent tax credit.
"
Legislation to encourage charitable contributions to community service organizations recently won unanimous approval in the House Tax and Revenue Committee.
Senate Bill 1537, by State Rep. Wes Hilliard and State Sen. Susan Paddack (D-Ada), creates a community development tax credit to encourage citizens to invest in organizations that are committed to strengthening their communities.
Under the bill, corporations or individuals located in rural areas of Oklahoma-those areas that have a population of 15,000 or less receive a 70 percent tax credit based on the total amount given and corporations or individuals located in an urban are will receive a 50 percent tax credit.
"
St. Paul Pioneer Press | 04/07/2006 | Doyle calls for review of charity program
St. Paul Pioneer Press | 04/07/2006 | Doyle calls for review of charity program: "Doyle calls for review of charity program
Some faith-based groups say they're kept off state list
BY RYAN J. FOLEY
Associated Press
Gov. Jim Doyle called for a review Thursday of standards used to determine whether charities can participate in a state-run program allowing employees to automatically donate part of their paychecks.
A coalition of faith-based groups filed a federal lawsuit against state officials late last week claiming they were excluded from a list of groups to which state employees can direct part of their earnings."
Some faith-based groups say they're kept off state list
BY RYAN J. FOLEY
Associated Press
Gov. Jim Doyle called for a review Thursday of standards used to determine whether charities can participate in a state-run program allowing employees to automatically donate part of their paychecks.
A coalition of faith-based groups filed a federal lawsuit against state officials late last week claiming they were excluded from a list of groups to which state employees can direct part of their earnings."
adn.com | alaska : Conoco warns nonprofits about tax
adn.com | alaska : Conoco warns nonprofits about tax: "A Conoco Phillips executive Thursday told leaders of dozens of Southcentral charities and other private organizations that higher state oil taxes will have negative, long-term consequences on Alaska's economy.
And the organizations were told that those consequences would be felt across Alaska, including in charitable organizations."
And the organizations were told that those consequences would be felt across Alaska, including in charitable organizations."
Thursday, April 06, 2006
House OKs bill capping nonprofits' gifts
House OKs bill capping nonprofits' gifts: "-- House-passed legislation could put tight financial constraints on the nonprofit political groups that relied on millionaire donors to vault to a prominent role in the 2004 presidential elections.
The Republican-backed legislation, approved Wednesday on a narrow 218-209 vote, would require those groups, known as '527s,' to register as political committees and abide by campaign funding limits."
The Republican-backed legislation, approved Wednesday on a narrow 218-209 vote, would require those groups, known as '527s,' to register as political committees and abide by campaign funding limits."
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Paper's stark new take on corporate philanthropy - Leon Gettler - Opinion
Paper's stark new take on corporate philanthropy - Leon Gettler - Opinion: "Paper's stark new take on corporate philanthropy
By Leon Gettler
April 6, 2006
CORPORATE philanthropy in Melbourne will face many more demands over the next 25 years, with increased population resulting in unaffordable housing, soaring rents, and a widening gap between rich and poor.
Emerging problems identified in a discussion paper include reduced access to services, unaffordable housing, loss of parkland, open space and green wedges, more bad health and an ageing population."
By Leon Gettler
April 6, 2006
CORPORATE philanthropy in Melbourne will face many more demands over the next 25 years, with increased population resulting in unaffordable housing, soaring rents, and a widening gap between rich and poor.
Emerging problems identified in a discussion paper include reduced access to services, unaffordable housing, loss of parkland, open space and green wedges, more bad health and an ageing population."
Tags:
OMB Watch - Senate Overwhelmingly Approves Lobby Reform; House To Take Up 527s
OMB Watch - Senate Overwhelmingly Approves Lobby Reform; House To Take Up 527s: "Senate Overwhelmingly Approves Lobby Reform; House To Take Up 527s
Voting just hours after former lobbyist Jack Abramoff was sentenced, the Senate overwhelmingly passed what critics are calling a tepid effort at lobby and ethics reform. Now the pressure is on the House, where leaders have struggled to balance the need to pass reforms with a rebellious rank-and-file that wants business as usual.
On March 29, the Senate passed S. 2349, the Legislative Transparency and Accountability Act, by a roll call vote of 90-8. Senate Republican and Democratic leaders praised the final Senate bill as a bipartisan response to scandals that recently rocked Capitol Hill, involving Abramoff and former Rep. Randall 'Duke' Cunningham (R-CA)."
Voting just hours after former lobbyist Jack Abramoff was sentenced, the Senate overwhelmingly passed what critics are calling a tepid effort at lobby and ethics reform. Now the pressure is on the House, where leaders have struggled to balance the need to pass reforms with a rebellious rank-and-file that wants business as usual.
On March 29, the Senate passed S. 2349, the Legislative Transparency and Accountability Act, by a roll call vote of 90-8. Senate Republican and Democratic leaders praised the final Senate bill as a bipartisan response to scandals that recently rocked Capitol Hill, involving Abramoff and former Rep. Randall 'Duke' Cunningham (R-CA)."
House considers nonprofit spending bill
House considers nonprofit spending bill: "House considers nonprofit spending bill
By JIM ABRAMS
ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
WASHINGTON -- Republicans expect a close House vote on legislation that would put contribution limits on the nonprofit political groups that proliferated during the 2004 presidential election, chiefly to the benefit to Democrats.
The legislation, which could come to a vote late Wednesday, would require groups known as 527s - made famous by the multimillion-dollar contributions of liberal businessman George Soros and the anti-John Kerry Swift Boat Veterans for Truth - to register as political committees and abide by the same contribution limits as those committees."
By JIM ABRAMS
ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
WASHINGTON -- Republicans expect a close House vote on legislation that would put contribution limits on the nonprofit political groups that proliferated during the 2004 presidential election, chiefly to the benefit to Democrats.
The legislation, which could come to a vote late Wednesday, would require groups known as 527s - made famous by the multimillion-dollar contributions of liberal businessman George Soros and the anti-John Kerry Swift Boat Veterans for Truth - to register as political committees and abide by the same contribution limits as those committees."
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Bill would create grants database
Bill would create grants database: "Bill would create grants database
By Rob Thormeyer, GCN Staff
Aiming to bring more transparency to the federal grant-making process, two top lawmakers have introduced legislation that would create a public database to track government-issued grants.
The legislation introduced by House Majority Whip Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) and Rep. Tom Davis (R-Va.) requires the government to post information as to whom a grant was awarded, a breakdown of assistance by agency and program source, all awards a grantee has received over the past 10 years and a list of dates and amounts of federal financial assistance the grantee has received.
"
By Rob Thormeyer, GCN Staff
Aiming to bring more transparency to the federal grant-making process, two top lawmakers have introduced legislation that would create a public database to track government-issued grants.
The legislation introduced by House Majority Whip Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) and Rep. Tom Davis (R-Va.) requires the government to post information as to whom a grant was awarded, a breakdown of assistance by agency and program source, all awards a grantee has received over the past 10 years and a list of dates and amounts of federal financial assistance the grantee has received.
"
Monday, April 03, 2006
FOXNews.com - Politics News - DHS Gets New Faith-Based Office
FOXNews.com - Politics News - DHS Gets New Faith-Based Office: "DHS Gets New Faith-Based Office
Monday, April 03, 2006
By Kelley Beaucar Vlahos
WASHINGTON — In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, President Bush has added one more office of faith-based initiatives to his administration, this time in the Department of Homeland Security.
Proponents of faith-based organizations working with federal assistance are thrilled and say these offices are in part responsible for religious groups receiving $2.1 billion in federal grants last year, up 7 percent from 2004, according to recent White House numbers."
Monday, April 03, 2006
By Kelley Beaucar Vlahos
WASHINGTON — In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, President Bush has added one more office of faith-based initiatives to his administration, this time in the Department of Homeland Security.
Proponents of faith-based organizations working with federal assistance are thrilled and say these offices are in part responsible for religious groups receiving $2.1 billion in federal grants last year, up 7 percent from 2004, according to recent White House numbers."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)