Recently, the House voted against the GOP-led H.R.9495, Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act.
I read an article that stated, "The American Civil Liberties Union criticized the bill as "a new tool [the Trump administration] could use to stifle free speech, target political opponents, and punish groups that disagree with them."
It appears that the GOP is reintroducing this bill again this week! If this bill comes up again, please vote 'NO' [as it is my understanding that] the bill would foster unbridled power for a presidential administration.
My concern is that this bill would allow discriminatory intent and political exploitation. The title of the bill sounds appealing. The bill also includes tax relief for 'American hostages'. But within the bill (I believe it's Section 4), ANY nonprofit can be summarily and without proof be categorized as "supporting terrorism" by the Secretary of the Treasury [or ultimately the Trump administration]. At which point a non-profit must embark on a legal fight to prove they are not "supporting terrorism" (which could easily lead to bankruptcy). The burden of proof is on the accused, not the accuser!
Ultimately, the appeal can go to the Federal Court. Such court cases are costly.
Thank you,
News article that covers an overview of the bill:
https://www.newsweek.com/full-list-republicans-voted-give-trump-treasury-more-power-1984733
