From IRS section 501(c)(3): "To be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, an organization must be organized and operated exclusively for exempt purposes set forth in section 501(c)(3), and none of its earnings may inure to any private shareholder or individual. In addition, it may not be an action organization, i.e., it may not attempt to influence legislation as a substantial part of its activities and it may not participate in any campaign activity for or against political candidates." Marylands churches and religious organizations have recently united under the sole purpose of enacting change in the state's marriage laws. As such, they have become a politically charged action organization intent on imposing their will and beliefs on state residents. Therefore they now have broken the IRS's code for tax exempt status, and must begin paying. If they want to be such a part of the state's legislature and people's everyday lives, they should start by paying their fair share and contributing to public needs as do all taxpayers. If you believe that churches and religious groups should stay out of politics and not dictate rights of citizens, please sign this petition.