Dear Representative:
On behalf of the AFL-CIO, I am writing to express our strong opposition to the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act (H.R. 9495) scheduled for floor consideration this week.
We have deep concerns, along with the rest of U.S. civil society, that the powers that H.R. 9495 bestows upon the Secretary of Treasury will be vulnerable to abuse by any future Administration. The ability to revoke tax-exempt status and thereby hamstring or put out of commission any non-profit organization based on accusations without evidence or without a fair hearing would set a dangerous precedent, allowing the government to stifle dissent and for officeholders to punish critics, chilling freedom of speech and association. It is through the exercise of these freedoms that working people organize, collectively bargain, and petition their government.
It is precisely at a time when the incoming President-elect has identified various American citizens and American institutions as “enemies of the people” or “enemies from within” that Congress should be especially circumspect about expanding executive power, especially power that lacks real due process for Americans and their organizations, including their unions.
The AFL-CIO urges you to vote against the H.R. 9495 and again reject this misguided legislation as Congress did last week when it was on the suspension calendar.
Sincerely,
Jody Calemine
Director, Government Affairs