1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

I am reaching out regarding your recent support for H.R. 9495, the "Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act." I urge you to reflect on the implications of this bill, which, while intended to combat terrorism, risks stifling essential freedoms, undermining nonprofit advocacy, and misusing terror designations against organizations promoting human rights and justice. H.R. 9495, though framed as a protective measure, could set a dangerous precedent by allowing any administration to target and dismantle nonprofit groups whose missions may include advocacy for Palestinian liberation or other justice causes. This poses a real threat to the integrity of democratic freedoms, including the right to free speech and peaceful protest. Instead of fighting terrorism, this bill could effectively silence those who advocate for the marginalized, an outcome fundamentally at odds with American values of freedom and justice. As your constituent, I respectfully ask that you consider the potential consequences of this vote. It is crucial that we uphold our democratic principles by ensuring that legislative measures do not create pathways for executive overreach, targeting of political opponents, or suppression of disfavored groups. Thank you for taking the time to reflect on this matter. I hope that you will continue to stand for policies that protect human rights, justice, and freedom of expression.