1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act (H.R. 9495) poses a grave threat to freedom of speech and dissent in America. This bill would grant the Treasury Secretary unilateral power to investigate and revoke the tax-exempt status of any organization deemed to be "terrorist supporting" without due process or the ability to effectively mount a defense. This could enable the targeting of news outlets, universities, civil liberties groups and others for merely criticizing the government. Over 130 organizations spanning human rights, reproductive rights, and immigrant rights have opposed this dangerous bill. Protecting our democracy requires safeguarding the right to dissent without fear of retribution. I urge you to vote against H.R. 9495 and prevent this unacceptable infringement on civil liberties.