MENG STATEMENT ON H.R. 9495

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) today released the following statement on the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act, H.R. 9495.

"After receiving overwhelming outreach from a wide spectrum of constituents, community groups, labor unions, and nonprofit organizations in Queens, and listening to their urgent concerns about the impact this legislation could have under the incoming administration, I voted against H.R. 9495. While I believe that Americans held hostage abroad shouldn't face fines and penalties from the IRS once they return home, this issue should be taken up separately from legislation concerning the tax-exempt status of nonprofit organizations.

If a nonprofit is providing material support for terrorism in violation of U.S. law, its tax-exempt status should undoubtedly be stripped. At the same time, there are serious concerns about this legislation's broad authority in allowing the Treasury to target and terminate the tax-exempt status of nonprofit organizations based on a subjective declaration. Without sufficient safeguards in the legal process to protect organizations against unfounded accusations, there is a dangerous possibility the Trump administration could use this power to destroy those that it disagrees with.

I would like to thank all who reached out to me and my team with respectful calls and messages regarding this legislation. As we look ahead to the 119^th Congress, I look forward to continuing to act in the best interest of Queens and our nation as a whole."