1. United States
2. Md.
3. Letter

This bill proposes concerning measures that could enable the targeting of civil society organizations based on unsubstantiated accusations of providing "material support" to alleged terrorist groups. Terminating an organization's tax-exempt status through an opaque administrative process without robust due process protections raises serious free speech and association concerns. While combating terrorism financing is a legitimate aim, care must be taken to avoid infringing on constitutionally protected rights and activities. The bill's procedures risk chilling lawful advocacy and humanitarian efforts. Reasonable people may disagree on the best approach, but this bill's potential for abuse and lack of oversight are troubling. Robust public debate ensuring proper checks and balances would better serve our democratic principles.