By: June Swanson

The repeal of the Johnson Amendment (prohibiting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations from engaging in partisan campaign activity), which was included in the tax reform bill passed by the House, was excluded from the Senate version that passed early Saturday morning.  The bill passed on strict party lines with a 51-49 vote, with the exception of Republican Senator Bob Corker who voted against the measure.  The House voted Monday night to form a joint conference committee to negotiate a compromise bill that is anticipated to be sent to the President for signature before Christmas.  The fate of the repeal of the Johnson Amendment will be addressed by the conferees.  Stay tuned for developments.