Champaign-Urbana – CU Muslim Action Committee is deeply disappointed and alarmed by our democratic congressional representative, Nikki Budzinski’s, recent vote in favor of HR 9495. This dangerous bill, disguised under the name “Stop Terror Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act,” threatens the core principles of free speech and democratic values by granting sweeping powers to the Secretary of Treasury. It would give the administration the unprecedented authority to revoke tax-exempt status from organizations, including non-profits, universities, and faith-based groups, simply based on allegations or political disfavor.
The implications are alarming: this legislation could be weaponized against organizations critical of government policies, especially those advocating for justice in Palestine. HR 9495’s broad and ambiguous provisions are a direct threat to civil society, undermining the freedom of advocacy and dissent.
We condemn Rep. Budzinski’s support for this bill and call on our community to hold her accountable. She was voted into office to represent the values of this community, and this vote does not reflect those values. We urge everyone to reach out to her office, express your disapproval, and demand she opposes this legislation when it returns. Our voices matter, and we must make it clear: we do not support this overreach of power and attack on our constitutional freedoms.
Take Action Now
Contact Rep. Nikki Budzinski at 217-305-6991 and tell her to vote NO on HR 9495.