RCFP urges House to oppose bill that threatens nonprofit news outlets

Updates: On Nov. 12, 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives failed to pass this bill as part of a larger measure lawmakers sought to fast-track through the chamber outside of regular House rules. After lawmakers reintroduced the bill under regular procedures, the House passed it by a vote of 219-184 on Nov. 21.

The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press and a coalition of nonprofit news organizations are urging the U.S. House of Representatives to oppose legislation that would give the executive branch a dangerous new means to retaliate against nonprofit newsrooms whose coverage of terrorism federal officials dislike.

In a letter sent to the House on Sept. 25, the media coalition expressed concerns about H.R. 6408, which would grant the secretary of the Treasury broad powers to terminate the tax-exempt status of nonprofits that he or she designates as “having provided … material support or resources” to a terrorist organization. While it is already a crime to intentionally provide material support to terrorists, the Treasury’s new authority under the bill would have a broader sweep because it lacks an intent requirement.

The letter noted that the bill poses serious threats to vigorous press coverage of terrorism that are out of proportion to any legitimate need for the legislation.

“In a moment that calls urgently for thorough, independent reporting on the newsworthy activities of terrorist organizations,” the letter concluded, “we urge you to uphold the Constitution’s protections for a free press and oppose H.R. 6408.”