Proposed OMB Rule Raises Concerns for Nonprofit Voter Engagement Efforts
Jun 22, 2026
By Tia Turner, NLIHC Project Manager, Our Homes, Our Votes
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is currently accepting public comments on a proposed rule that could create confusion for nonprofit organizations that receive federal funding and engage in nonpartisan voter registration, voter education, and civic engagement activities. While the proposed language does not prohibit organizations from conducting voter engagement work using non-federal funds, nonprofit advocates have expressed concern that the rule could be misinterpreted and discourage organizations from carrying out lawful, nonpartisan civic engagement efforts.
Advocacy groups caution that the proposal could create uncertainty for nonprofits, particularly those serving historically underrepresented communities, during a critical election cycle. To help organizations better understand the proposal and its potential implications, Nonprofit VOTE is convening a listening session and briefing for nonprofit leaders, networks, and advocates on June 23. The discussion will bring together legal experts and nonprofit practitioners to review the proposed rule, address questions, and explore strategies to ensure organizations remain informed and confident in their ability to engage communities through lawful, nonpartisan civic participation efforts.
NLIHC’s Our Homes, Our Votes campaign will continue monitoring developments and encourage organizations engaged in voter registration, voter education, and civic engagement work to stay informed about the proposal and opportunities to provide public comment.
Register for the June 23, 2:00 pm ET listening session here.
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