Hospitals not part of political ads about hospitals

Press release

The Montana Hospital Association released Sept. 10 the following statement on recent political ads featuring hospitals.

“A series of recent political campaign advertisements has raised concerns about closure of hospitals in Montana’s rural communities. These ads were not coordinated, approved or endorsed by the Montana Hospital Association nor any of the hospitals named in the ad.

“It is important that residents understand that every one of Montana’s rural hospitals remains open and ready to provide vital healthcare services to the communities they serve. None of these hospitals are facing immediate threat of closure.

“We recognize that community members may be concerned by the statements made in these ads.

“Elected leaders can and will make decisions that affect our ability to continue and improve access to health care in all the communities served by MHA member facilities across the state. We invite you to learn more about where candidates stand on the healthcare policies that can affect you and your families. Montana’s hospitals, including those in rural areas, face many challenges and we urge community members to continue to engage with their local hospital, ask questions and understand the challenges they face.

Nearly all the hospitals named in the ads are designated as 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Under the Internal Revenue Code, all section 501(c)(3) organizations are absolutely prohibited from directly or indirectly participating in, or intervening in, any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for elective public office. The tax-exempt status of these hospitals is critical to delivering healthcare services in rural communities. Nonprofit hospitals cannot and will not engage in any activity that would jeopardize this important benefit for their communities.