Does SLAS have a "refund window"? While this issue may have some real scientific and educational ramifications and while I am not an attorney thank God. I think what you have asked in Q1 and Q2 goes against the basic intent of Article X of the clubs constitution. There may be plenty of legal wiggleroom but if you ask me this issue at this time is as "political" as they get. The club, in my opinion should stay out of it. Your opinion may vary. Steve
Date: Tue, 6 Dec 2011 15:09:21 -0800 From: canopus56@yahoo.com To: utah-astronomy@mailman.xmission.com Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] Alton Mine Hearing is tomorrow, Wed. 12-7 - SLAS formal action?
Robert wrote:
Getting involved in these types of activities is express[ly] prohibited by the club's constitution in Article X.
Robert, my reading is that Article X is that it is a standard IRS 501(c)(3) disclaimer provision that provides that SLAS may undertake some activity ``influencing legislation,'' as long as it is not a ``substantial part of the [club's] activities.'' My understanding of IRS Code 501(c)(3) restrictions are not intended complete bar against influencing legislation that are directly related to a non-profit's scientific-educational pursuits. But again, this is my understanding of the matter, and it is a question that a lawyer could easily resolve.
Respectfully Robert, you are misreading Article X. Article X does not state that it is a complete bar that strictly prohibits any club activity that influences legislation.
Clear Skies - Canopus56
Article X of the SLAS Constitution states:
The Society is organized as an educational and scientific organization and will take part only in activities that are scientific/educational in nature. No substantial part of the activities of the Society shall be carrying on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation and the Society shall not participate in or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf on any candidate for public office. Notwithstanding any other provisions of these articles, the Society shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on by a corporation exempt from Federal Income Tax under section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue Law).
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