California legislators are mulling a plan to take away tax benefits that help the Boy Scouts, citing the justification that groups that don’t allow gay, transgender or atheist members shouldn’t receive help.
“Our state values the important role that youth groups play in the empowerment of our next generation. This is demonstrated by rewarding organizations with tax exemptions supported financially by all Californians,” said the bill’s sponsor, Democratic Sen. Ricardo Lara, in The Blaze. “[This bill] seeks to end the unfortunate discriminatory and outdated practices by certain youth groups.”
While some cities and local jurisdictions have pulled back certain benefits for the Boy Scouts of America — free rent, for example — this bill would represent the first time a state targeted the group for its policy that prevents gay membership, The Blaze reported.
The Boy Scouts of America is due to release its new policy about gay membership in May.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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