1. United States
2. Tenn.
3. Letter

I urge opposition to H.R. 9495, the so-called "Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act." This dangerous bill would give the Secretary of Treasury overly broad and easily abused powers to unilaterally strip U.S. nonprofits of their tax-exempt status without due process. Targeted organizations would not have a meaningful opportunity to defend themselves or be given the reasons and evidence for such decisions. Even the threat of this could chill the lawful activities of many nonprofits across the country. Over 130 civil liberties, religious, reproductive rights, immigrant rights, human rights, racial justice, LGBTQ+, environmental, and educational groups have voiced opposition, highlighting the potential for abuse against a wide range of causes. Unchecked executive authority to target disfavored groups is antithetical to democratic values. I strongly urge voting against this unacceptable expansion of power that endangers the operation of nonprofits nationwide.