Regulation Could Be Used to Target Americans Who Contribute to Non-Profits
Washington, DC – FreedomWorks Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has driven more than 9,000 comments against a rule proposed by the Internal Revenue Service that could reduce gift-giving. Comments sent via the FreedomWorks Foundation’s Regulatory Action Center represent nearly 25 percent of the approximately 38,000 comments the IRS received.
The powerful, scandal-plagued tax agency is proposing that non-profit organizations collect Social Security numbers when reporting gifts. This rule could have a harmful effect on giving and represents another step by the IRS to expand its power.
“Just a few years ago, the IRS used its vast power to target conservatives who were merely seeking to be a part of the discussion on issues facing the country,” said FreedomWorks Foundation CEO Adam Brandon. “Bureaucrats even proposed a rule to legitimize their harassment of conservatives. The backlash from the public caused the IRS to withdraw the proposal.”
“This latest proposed rule aimed at non-profits is extremely concerning not only to the conservative grassroots but to every American who believes in contributing to charities and non-profits,” Brandon continued. “The information the IRS is asking for would provide bureaucrats, the Lois Lerners of this corrupt agency, with a treasure trove of information that could be used to target those who contribute to non-profits that promote a message they disagree with.”
“Our community sees the threat of what the IRS is proposing. Although the rule would be ‘voluntary’ in the beginning, it could become mandatory. These unelected bureaucrats are willing to stop at nothing to expand their power even if that means likely deterring Americans from giving to non-profits and charities that work on issues close to their beliefs,” he added.
FreedomWorks Foundation seeks to engage and educate Americans across all demographics on the principles of smaller government, lower taxes, free markets, personal liberty, and the rule of law. For more information, please visit www.FreedomWorks.org/Foundation
