- United States
- Va.
- Letter
Reject Overreach Jeopardizing Nonprofits' Free Speech Rights
To: Rep. McClellan
From: A constituent in Richmond, VA
November 20
The proposed legislation raises significant constitutional concerns by granting the Secretary of Treasury virtually unchecked authority to unilaterally designate U.S. nonprofits as "terrorist supporting organizations" and strip them of tax-exempt status. This would jeopardize fundamental free speech rights by allowing the executive branch to selectively target and punish organizations based on their viewpoints or advocacy. Nonprofits could face devastating financial and reputational harm without adequate due process protections. The existing laws already prohibit providing material support to terrorist groups. However, this bill risks being abused to suppress dissent, censor media outlets, and target political opponents across the ideological spectrum. It sets a dangerous precedent that could chill the activities of charities and advocacy groups out of fear of reprisal, undermining civil society. I urge you to reject provisions granting these unchecked powers that threaten constitutional rights and the vital role of nonprofits in our democracy. Instead, focus legislation on delivering justice for hostages without infringing on free expression or due process. Protect the independence and freedom of 501(c)(3) charities to operate without undue government overreach.