ADVOCACY
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Subject: Urgent: HR 9495 Threatens Nonprofits – Take Action Now
Dear friends,
Today, the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee advanced HR 9495, the “Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act.” While its title and stated goal may seem straightforward, the implications of this bill are deeply concerning and potentially dangerous.
Here’s what the legislation aims to do:
- Postpone tax deadlines and waive penalties for U.S. nationals wrongfully detained abroad.
- Grant the U.S. Treasury Secretary sweeping authority to revoke the tax-exempt status of nonprofits designated as “terrorist-supporting organizations.”
This second provision is alarming, especially under the current administration’s pattern of framing gender-affirming care and certain forms of advocacy as “subversive.” With no clear definition of what qualifies an organization as “terrorist-supporting” and no requirement for due process or transparency, this law could be weaponized against nonprofits serving LGBTQ+ communities, immigrants, reproductive rights, and more.
They are aiming to pass this bill by Memorial Day and have it signed into law by July 1st. That gives us only weeks to act.
Why This Matters
Nonprofits are not just service providers—they are the frontline defenders of civil liberties, equity, and human rights. If we allow vague, unchecked authority to be granted to the Executive Branch, we open the door to targeted political attacks on the very organizations fighting for justice and inclusion.
This bill could chill advocacy work, restrict critical services, and undermine organizations whose missions challenge the status quo.
Sample Call
(use the link below to find your Representatives)
Talking Points / Sample Message:
Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a constituent from [City, State].
I’m calling today to urge Senator [Name] to oppose any provision that allows the Executive Branch to revoke a nonprofit’s tax-exempt status without due process, including language in HR 9495.
I also urge you to support the Charitable Act, which strengthens nonprofits’ ability to serve our communities.
HR 9495’s current language could endanger organizations that provide support services for LGBTQ+ Community, gender-affirming care, immigrant support, and other vital services—especially if politically targeted. This is unacceptable.
Please protect the integrity and independence of our nonprofit sector. We are counting on you.
Thank you
[Your Name]