NH Nonprofits Respond to Federal House Bill Threatening Exempt Status

The NH Center for Nonprofits joined the Council on Foundations, Independent Sector, National Council of Nonprofits, and United Philanthropy Forum in opposing, as currently drafted, a bill in the US House of Representatives: the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act (H.R. 9495).

The Center’s action alert noted that the bill would give the Treasury Secretary unchecked power to revoke the tax-exempt status of charitable nonprofits, running counter to constitutional due process protections by placing the burden of proof on the accused organization and providing only 90 days for organizations to demonstrate innocence before revoking their tax-exempt status. As a result of this engagement, Congressman Pappas reversed his position on the bill.

“In speaking to nonprofit leaders in New Hampshire doing vital work to increase housing, fight the opioid and addiction epidemic, and help families and small businesses thrive, it is clear that those who do this work every day in my district have concerns that more guardrails are needed to ensure this legislation is properly implemented,” noted Congressman Pappas before the final floor vote.

Although the bill did pass the House, it is unlikely to have a vote in the US Senate during the remainder of the lame duck session.