West Florida News

WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) has introduced the Safeguarding Charity Act, a legislation aimed at protecting the independence of tax-exempt organizations in the United States. The act clarifies that tax-exempt organizations should not be considered recipients of federal financial assistance, thus shielding them from burdensome federal regulations.

The introduction of this act comes in response to recent radical judicial decisions that have targeted religious schools, causing concern about the potential implications for other tax-exempt organizations. By codifying that tax-exempt status should not be equated with receiving federal financial assistance, the Safeguarding Charity Act aims to prevent the weaponization of the judicial system against houses of worship, religious schools, charities, and other non-profit organizations.

Representative Greg Steube highlighted the importance of this legislation, stating, "These organizations should not be subjected to a series of laws and regulations triggered by receipt of federal financial assistance." He also expressed gratitude to Senator Marco Rubio for his partnership on this issue.

Senator Marco Rubio, who introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate, emphasized the significance of civic organizations like churches, schools, and charities in communities. He expressed concern about recent court decisions that could impose burdensome federal regulations on these organizations solely based on their tax-exempt status. Senator Rubio stated, "My Safeguarding Charity Act would protect these organizations from the government's politicized battles so they can continue their vital work in our communities."

This legislative effort was supported by a group of Senators and Representatives who joined Steube and Rubio in their efforts. Senator Mike Braun remarked, "We need to protect our charitable organizations, private schools, and churches from being targeted by the federal government due to their tax-exempt status and beliefs."

Congressman Doug Lamborn emphasized the need for Congress to protect houses of worship and private entities from government overreach. He stated, "It is past time that legislation is enacted to clarify the independence of tax-exempt organizations, from those receiving federal financial assistance."

Congressman Ben Cline echoed this sentiment, expressing his pride in co-sponsoring the Safeguarding Charity Act. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that tax-exempt organizations, including non-profits, religious organizations, and private schools, are not burdened with excessive reporting requirements and politicized regulations.

The Safeguarding Charity Act has received support from various organizations, including Alliance Defending Freedom, The Philanthropy Roundtable, Americans for Prosperity, and the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, among others.

Overall, the Safeguarding Charity Act seeks to protect the independence of tax-exempt organizations in the United States by clarifying their status as non-recipients of federal financial assistance. This legislation aims to shield these organizations from burdensome federal regulations and prevent them from being targeted by the government based on their tax-exempt status.