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Oxfam says Senate must not pass bill that threatens free speech and non-profits: “this bill would have far-reaching implications”

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After H.R. 9495, a bill that would allow the Treasury Secretary to effectively shut down any non-profit organization, including news outlets, religious institutions, and universities, passed the House of Representatives today, Oxfam America President and CEO Abby Maxman released the following statement:

“As a leader in the humanitarian community, I am gravely concerned that the House of Representatives today passed a bill that threatens free speech, crushes dissent, and gives the incoming Trump administration, and any future administration, the ability to shut down non-profits that dare to freely express an opinion. We have seen bills like this in other countries, and we know what they do: silence criticism and put lifesaving humanitarian operations like Oxfam’s at risk.

“This is bill would have far-reaching implications. Majority Leader Schumer should not put this bill on the floor of the Senate and should ensure it is not attached to any must pass legislation during the lame duck session. Should it come up for a vote, Senators should vote NO. Any vote in favor of H.R. 9495 is a direct attack on free speech and the ability of non-profit, charitable organizations to continue our crucial work.”

Oxfam is a global organization that fights inequality to end poverty and injustice. We offer lifesaving support in times of crisis and advocate for economic justice, gender equality, and climate action. We demand equal rights and equal treatment so that everyone can thrive, not just survive. The future is equal. Join us at oxfamamerica.org.

/ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS:

  • In September, Oxfam America joined the ACLU and a diverse group of over 300 other tax-exempt organizations — including human rights, reproductive health, and immigrants’ rights groups — in a letter to Congress urging them to vote no.
  • The letter explains that the groups do not oppose the provisions in H.R. 9495 that relate to preventing the IRS from imposing fines and penalties on hostages while they are held abroad.
  • It also explains that the executive branch already has provisions in place, that prohibits organizations from providing material support to terrorist organizations.

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