Republican tax bill could slap ‘terrorism’ label on non-profits opposed to Trump

(From the Guardian, May 14th)

Fears sparked that Trump would wield law against groups that file lawsuits or organize voters against his policies

Chris Stein in Washington


Non-profit groups are sounding the alarm over an attempt by Republican lawmakers to insert a provision allowing the government to cancel the tax-exempt status of organizations it deems “terrorist supporting” in a massive bill under negotiation in the House of Representatives.

The provision’s potential inclusion in the spending and taxation legislation that Donald Trump and his allies refer to as “one big, beautiful bill” has sparked fears that the administration will wield it against groups who file lawsuits or organize voters against his policies.

Lia Holland, campaigns and communications director at tech policy non-profit Fight for the Future, described the provision as “a five-alarm fire for non-profits nationwide”.

“Any organization with goals that do not line up with Maga can be destroyed with a wink from Trump to the treasury”, likely those that oppose his policies towards Israel, or advocate for causes like racial justice and the environment, they said.

Trump had made plain his desire for revenge against his enemies, and since taking office has sought to deport foreign students who engaged in pro-Palestinian activism, blacklisted law firms who have worked for his political opponents and backed the arrest of a county judge on charges of obstructing immigration authorities.


“This provision has nothing to do with keeping Americans safe and instead is an attack on free speech, the security of our communities, and the work of non-profit organizations and charities,” said Skye Perryman, president and CEO of Democracy Forward, which has repeatedly taken the White House to court over its policies.

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https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/14/tax-status-non-profits-terrorism-republicans