Legal Considerations in the Midst of COVID-19

The COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation continues to change by the minute. With each confirmed case and each updated death count comes new guidance, new advisories, and new regulations from federal and state officials.

Church Law & Tax quickly mobilized to help churches, pastors, and leaders navigate this uncertain and trying moment. In the past week, we’ve built a collection page of our coronavirus coverage—free to the public during this crisis—containing new content addressing key issues and questions now confronting churches. For instance:

• A brief explanation from senior editor Richard Hammar on how to assess legal liabilities, insurance coverage, and church business meetings;
• First Amendment considerations regarding government regulations of public gatherings;
• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) changes that directly affect churches and religious organizations;
• Guidance on handling charitable contributions made to now-cancelled mission trips; and
• Ways to use technology effectively to keep worship services and church office operations moving forward.

More pieces dealing with legal, tax, finance, and employment matters will go live soon, too.

This is an unprecedented moment in our lifetimes. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, discouraged, and fearful. Yet situations like these often spur unexpected opportunities for ministry. Our goal is to educate and empower you to lead with confidence—to move past fear, as 2 Timothy 1:7 teaches, and instead lead with power, love, and self-discipline.

Also this week:

We need your help: Help us better understand sexual harassment in the workplace through this survey as we aim to help church leaders address and prevent it.
Why pastors should know the fundamentals of church incorporation (hint: it affects the governance of their churches).
The top three most confusing tax issues for clergy.

The Lord bless you and keep you,
Matthew Branaugh
Editor, Content and Business Development, Church Law & Tax