Court Affirms California Attorney General’s Demand for Confidential Donor List

Unwelcome news for charities concerned with donor confidentiality

 

A recent court ruling1 upheld the position of the California Attorney General (AG) requiring that charities located or operating in California provide a copy of their unredacted Form 990 Schedule B, including the names, addresses and contribution amounts for all donors listed.  While the AG has indicated that the information will not be made publicly available, the ruling is unwelcome news for charities concerned about protecting donors’ identities.  The collection of sensitive donor information from charities appears to be a growing trend by state Attorneys General.  Affected charities, including out-of-state charities soliciting or otherwise operating in California should review their donor confidentiality policies and disclosures to ensure that their donors are aware of such requirements.

 

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