WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- Newly-appointed House Oversight Committee Chairman Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, says he has set his sights on the National Football League and its nonprofit status, warning Commissioner Roger Goodell he will probably be called to testify before Congress.
"Was that a nonprofit event going on [Sunday night] or was that a for-profit venture?" Chaffetz posed to CNN.
"It's a for-profit venture. You tell people that the NFL is a nonprofit entity and they just start laughing and giggling. But it's not fair. If there's another side to that, then let the commissioner come in and make that case."
Chaffetz's comments echo a statement he released before the Super Bowl, announcing his intention to target both the NFL and the NHL for their tax exempt status. Both leagues enjoy tax exempt status as "a trade association of manufacturers," similar to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Major League Baseball surrendered its tax exempt status in 2002.
"Professional sports organizations aren't fooling anybody," the Utah congressman said in a press release.
"Organizations like the NFL and NHL are for-profit businesses making millions of dollars each year. These are not charities nor are they traditional trade organizations. They are for-profit businesses and should be taxed as such. Closing this loophole should be combined with closing several other loopholes in order to lower tax rates in a revenue-neutral manner."
