The Advisory Committee on the Charitable Sector (ACCS) released the committee’s fourth report, which covers the recommendations from four dedicated working groups on issues the ACCS determined were priorities for the charitable sector.
1. Definition of charity and charitable purposes working group (DCCPWG): The group examined the current regulatory approach to charitable purposes and activities to determine what, if anything, is missing. It examined the advantages and disadvantages of a statutory definition of “charity” in the Income Tax Act. The group’s recommendations emphasize the importance of reconciliation-focused policy reviews and consultations with Indigenous communities. Their suggestions aim to modernize charity law and regulation, making it more inclusive and equitable.
2. National inherent risk assessment working group (NIRAWG): The group considered the impact of the 2023 National Inherent Risk Assessment (NIRA) on the charitable sector by reviewing the policy by centering both the charitable sector and by using the Government’s Gender-based Analysis Plus (GBA Plus) framework. It recommends a comprehensive risk assessment approach for the anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing (AML/ATF) regimes. This approach will ensure Charter compliance and incorporate gender and diversity considerations. The NIRAWG seeks to make the regulatory measures within the sector fairer and more effective.
3. Transparency and data related to other qualified donees and nonprofit organizations working group (TDWG): The group reviewed the data landscape to find ways to improve data quality and transparency for charities, other qualified donees, and nonprofit organizations who seek to make data-informed program and policy decisions. The group proposes the development of publicly available tracking tools and the use of artificial intelligence for data analysis. Their recommendations aim to make the data housed within the regulatory environment easier to understand, more transparent, and more useful to the sector.
4. Relationship between the CRA and the charitable sector working group (CRACSWG): The group seeks to improve the relationship between the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and the charitable sector by providing recommendations to help improve administrative practices and procedures demanded by the regulatory system. It highlights the need for improved outreach and communication between the CRA and charitable organizations, suggesting the rebuilding of the Charities Partnership and Outreach Program and the creation of a more engaging and supportive environment for charities.
For further information about the Advisory Committee on the Charitable Sector’s fourth report and the recommendations, click here.