Since 1954, the IRS has banned nonprofits — including congregations — from participating in political campaigns. The agency now says political endorsements by churches should be allowed.

The IRS hopes to settle a lawsuit brought by a pair of Texas churches and a group of religious broadcasters over rules that bar houses of worship and other nonprofits from getting involved in political campaigns.

(Reuters) -Churches and other houses of worship can endorse political candidates to their congregations without risking losing their status as tax-exempt nonprofits, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service said.