Pontiac Times

Rep. Lisa McClain of Michigan has cast her vote in favor of H.R. 9495, the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act. The proposed legislation aims to remove tax exemptions for non-profit organizations that provide material support to terrorist groups and eliminate tax penalties imposed on Americans held hostage abroad.

McClain stated, “America should be moving mountains to bring our hostages home, instead the IRS is penalizing those held in captivity for failing to pay their taxes on time.” She highlighted the case of Paul Whalen, a Michigander who was imprisoned in Russia for over five years, accumulating significant tax penalties during his captivity. "Paul and American hostages like him should not be concerned about late taxes while they are fighting for their lives in the hands of evil," she added.

The legislation also targets entities that may support terrorist activities under the guise of charitable work. McClain noted, “Meanwhile, the very terrorist organizations who take our citizens hostage might be receiving support from tax-exempt entities hiding behind the façade of goodwill. No longer will these entities benefit from the solace of tax relief while they go behind the backs of the free world.”