Statement on the House Ways and Means Reconciliation Package

WASHINGTON, D.C. – InterAction released the following statement on the House Ways and Means Reconciliation Package.

“The House Ways and Means Committee reconciliation package attempts to address an issue—preventing material support to terrorists—which is a laudable goal and one shared by U.S.-based non-governmental organizations (NGOs). However, giving new executive branch authority to strip the tax-exempt status of nonprofits creates a framework in which any administration, Democrat or Republican, can systematically dismantle legitimate nonprofit work with little more than false accusations as justification.

“NGOs are already bound by comprehensive legal prohibitions against providing material support to terrorists, with violations carrying severe criminal and civil penalties. NGOs have rigorous policies and operational controls in place—such as ensuring that potential partners and vendors are not sanctioned or designated entities, segregation of duties, whistleblower mechanisms with enforcement, and regular third-party audits—to ensure assistance gets to the people who need it most.

“We appreciate that the Committee recognizes the unique challenges that humanitarian NGOs face in working in restrictive environments. However, we remain deeply concerned that Section 112209 could be used by any administration against nonprofits whose views they disagree with and urge Congress to reconsider including this section in the final reconciliation package.”

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InterAction unites and amplifies the voices of America’s leading humanitarian and development organizations committed to creating a safer, more prosperous world. Its members deliver lifesaving aid, protect vulnerable families, and advance human dignity around the globe.

For press inquiries, please contact Mitch McQuate at mmcquate@interaction.org or (202) 403-7253.