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The Nonprofit Sector Strength and Partnership Act of 2022

This legislation establishes a formal relationship for new ongoing collaboration between the U.S. government and the nonprofit sector. 

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The Nonprofit Sector Strength and Partnership Act of 2022 was introduced last week by Congressman Fred Upton and Minnesota Congresswoman Betty McCollum. 

The legislation establishes a formal relationship for new ongoing collaboration between the U.S. government and the nonprofit sector. 

“Southwest Michigan is home to so many life-changing and sustaining nonprofits. The Nonprofit Sector Strength and Partnership Act of 2022 will give nonprofits a seat at the table,” Rep. Upton said. “This legislation builds on the success Michigan and other states have had to ensure that nonprofits have a voice and their important work is not hindered by a lack of communication with legislators and officials. It will empower nonprofits and benefit communities across our country.”

The legislation would create several structures for engaging nonprofits with the federal government such as:

•    Establish an interagency council for federal agencies to coordinate their work with the nonprofit sector.

•    Institute a federal advisory board of nonprofit leaders.

•    Secure a formal place for nonprofit expertise and input in the White House.

It also would strengthen the nonprofit sector’s relationship with government and community by implementing policies that:

•    Provide regular employment data on the nonprofit sector, the same as for-profit industries.

•    Direct the creation of a voluntary streamlined charitable registration system across states.

•    Create a commission on grant reform with strong representation from the nonprofit sector.

“Our sector—foundations and nonprofits alike—has long been seeking an established and formal partnership with government that the Nonprofit Sector Strength and Partnership Act of 2022 will create,” Kyle Caldwell, president and CEO of CMF said. “We are grateful for the leadership of Congressman Fred Upton for co-sponsoring this important legislation. We know government needs good data, our active voice and our meaningful engagement. Creating a seat at the table for the nonprofit sector will ensure we can work alongside government to more effectively serve communities in ways that lead toward more equitable outcomes.”

Bill supporters include 76 national organizations, as well as nonprofits of all sizes that have endorsed it in every state and Washington, D.C.

“This bill addresses a long-standing need for structures and policies that allow our nation’s nonprofits to share regular feedback and advice to the federal government during policymaking. It’s an immense step for nonprofits, the nation, and our communities,” Dan Cardinali, president and CEO of Independent Sector said.

During the closing session of this year’s virtual Foundations on the Hill (FOTH), Caldwell joined Cardinali, in conversation with Rep. Betty McCollum and Rep. Fred Upton’s legislative assistant, Alec Zender, to discuss the forthcoming legislation and the value of creating a structured, formal partnership with the federal government. 

CMF will continue to track this legislation and share any updates as they become available. 

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