1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

The proposed Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act seeks to amend the Internal Revenue Code to provide relief for American hostages and those wrongfully detained abroad by postponing tax filing deadlines, reimbursing paid penalties and fees, and terminating the tax-exempt status of organizations that provide material support to terrorist groups. While well-intentioned, this legislation raises concerns about expanding government overreach and violating civil liberties. Postponing tax deadlines indefinitely for those detained could enable abuse and create a slippery slope for selectively excusing legal obligations. Reimbursing penalties already paid sets a troubling precedent of retroactively changing laws. Most alarmingly, the provisions allowing the IRS to unilaterally revoke an organization's tax-exempt status based on accusations of providing "material support" to certain groups is a clear violation of due process. Organizations could be branded as "terrorist supporters" without sufficient evidence or the ability to properly defend themselves. This bill undermines fundamental rights and expands unchecked government power in concerning ways under the guise of combating terrorism. Rather than infringing on civil liberties, efforts should focus on supporting Americans detained through legal means that uphold constitutional protections. Overly broad legislation that disregards due process will only breed more insecurity. Prioritizing human rights over expansive security measures is crucial for a free society. I urge rejecting this bill and exploring alternative policies that balance security with constitutional principles.