California Senate Votes To Revoke Nonprofit Status Of Boy Scouts

Even though scouting is now open to gay youth,  the Boy Scouts does not permit the participation of openly gay adults, and so the California Senate would like to revoke its nonprofit status.

“They are out of line with the values of California and should be ineligible for a tax benefit paid for by all Californians,” Sen. Ricardo Lara, D-Bell Gardens, said as he introduced his bill. “SB 323 brings our laws into line with our values.”

The measure calls for revoking the tax-exempt status of youth groups that discriminate against participants on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identification.

While the text of the bill does not specifically mention the Boy Scouts, analyses of the legislation and discussion among senators Wednesday made clear that it targets the organization.

The bill now goes to the California Assembly.

By: jybarz