WESTPORT, CT -- Newman’s Own, the Westport food company founded by Paul Newman, faces a crippling tax penalty that threatens the iconic Connecticut’s company’s philanthropic mission. Newman’s Own Foundation owns 100 percent of Newman’s Own food company. The IRS gave the foundation five years to divest from the company. In 2013, it was granted another five-year waiver, which is set to expire in November. When it does, the IRS will levy a 200 percent tax on the foundation’s assets. There are about 25 other charities based on the Newman's Own model, with a for-profit company on one side and a foundation funneling those profits into philanthropy on the other, Forrester said. He plans to return to Washington and redouble his push for a legislative solution. “We’re committed to this, and we’re going to fight for this,” he said. “I think these next six weeks are going to decide things.”
