State attorneys general have always had some responsibility to review the operations of non-profit charities and foundations. Unlike for-profit sectors of the economy, which answer to boards of directors and shareholders, attorneys general often are the only entity with responsibility over non-profit charities and foundations. Particularly because the 1.8 million non-profit organizations, such as hospitals, health insurers, and universities, contribute over a trillion dollars to the economy, the attorneys general’ use of that authority has taken on national significance.

Before considering the role of AGs in monitoring and regulating non-profit entities, the initial readings should provide a feel for the size of this segment of the economy. It amounts to trillions of dollars of the economy. The NAAG chapter and the TX memo (with funky formatting) explain the role of the AG and factors that might affect whether the AG does anything in this sphere.

The compendium of AG charities cases identify a mix of different circumstances in which AGs take action. You should ask yourself whether you thought the AG's actions were appropriate in each case. The final sets of readings look into NY's litigation against the NRA, and various AG actions against Black Lives Matter. As always, the question is whether the AGs were taking appropriate actions under the circumstances.