Can a Friends group advocate for or against a ballot measure?
A. Yes. Ballot initiatives, referendum, state constitutional amendments, bond measures, or similar measures are legislative proposals submitted for approval by the voters. In this case, the voters act as legislators deciding whether to approve or defeat a piece of legislation. Activity to influence the outcome of this vote would be a lobbying activity. But remember: 501(c)(3)s are absolutely prohibited from supporting or opposing candidates for public office. Just because you can work on a legislative measure appearing on the ballot does not mean that you can also comment on candidates included on the same ballot.
