- United States
- Ohio
- Letter
H.R. 9495 poses a grave threat to free speech and dissent in America by granting the Treasury Secretary unchecked power to unilaterally designate tax-exempt organizations as "terrorist supporting" and strip them of their tax-exempt status. This bill lacks due process protections, allowing the government to withhold evidence and leaving organizations unable to defend themselves against unsubstantiated allegations. The freedom to criticize the government without fear of retribution is fundamental to democracy. Handing this authority to the incoming administration risks severe abuse, with civil society groups, universities, and media outlets potentially targeted for their speech. Protect the First Amendment rights of all Americans by voting against H.R. 9495.