Dear Members of Arizona’s Congressional Delegation,
We, the undersigned organizations, write to express our strong opposition to H.R. 9495, a bill that threatens the fundamental rights of free speech, political dissent, and democratic governance in Arizona and across the nation. This legislation would grant unprecedented powers to the executive branch to unilaterally punish organizations and individuals, setting a dangerous precedent for abuse and erosion of democratic norms.
Key Concerns:
Unilateral Power to Suppress Opposition: This bill would give the executive branch, specifically the incoming Trump administration, unilateral authority to investigate and designate tax-exempt organizations as “terrorist supporting,” effectively stripping them of their tax-exempt status. This authority could be wielded to target political opponents, suppress free speech, and stifle legitimate dissent — actions that Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened on the campaign trail.
Erosion of Democracy and Rights: The broad and vague language of this legislation is an open invitation for abuse. Any organization that challenges government policies or criticizes powerful interests could face arbitrary penalties, chilling their ability to advocate for their missions and constituents. This is part of a larger far-right effort to undermine democracy, silence opposition, and restrict the right to protest.
Illusion of Due Process: While the bill provides a 90-day window for designated organizations to appeal, it offers no real protections. Organizations could be denied access to the evidence or reasons for their designation under claims of “national security” or “law enforcement” interests. This leaves affected groups powerless to mount a meaningful defense.
Existing Protections Are Sufficient: Under current federal law, providing “material support” to terrorist organizations is already prohibited and punishable. There is no need for additional legislation that disproportionately empowers the executive branch at the expense of civil liberties.
Broader Implications for Civil Society: This legislation risks undermining trust in and support for critical institutions, including universities, news outlets, and civil liberties organizations. The potential to mislabel legitimate advocacy and aid efforts as “terrorist support” would discourage engagement in pressing social issues, including human rights and justice.
The Path Forward:
The Senate has already approved provisions that prevent the IRS from imposing fines and fees on hostages held abroad. We strongly recommend separating these provisions from the problematic elements of H.R. 9495 to expedite their passage.
Now is not the time to grant sweeping, unchecked authority to any administration, especially one that has openly threatened to punish its political enemies. We urge Arizona lawmakers to reject this dangerous and unnecessary bill. Together, we stand united in defense of democracy, free speech, and the foundational principles of a just society.
Sincerely,
Organization:
Chispa AZ
Common Defense
Common Cause Arizona
Indivisible Arizona
Better Ballot AZ
Rural Arizona Action
Progress Arizona
Living United for Change in Arizona (LUCHA)
One Arizona
Our Voice Our Vote Arizona
Voter Choice Arizona
BlackNet AZ
Arizona Coalition for Change
All Voting Is Local Action
Arizona Students’ Association
Poder in Action
Wingbeat 88
Arizona Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander for Equity
Fuerte Arts Movement
ACLU of Arizona
Puente
American Federation of State County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Arizona
Arizona Democracy Resource Center
Poder Latinx
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