Washington, November 19 (RHC)-- In the U.S. capital, House Republicans are attempting once again to ram through H.R. 9495, a bill that would allow Trump and future presidents to effectively shut down nonprofits by labeling them a “terrorist-supporting organization.” 

The legislation could target humanitarian aid groups, news outlets, schools and countless civil society organizations. Congress failed to fast-track the bill last week, falling short of a required two-thirds majority despite dozens of Democrats voting in favor along with Republicans.  But the next vote, which could happen this week, would likely only require a simple majority.

A coalition of groups said in a statement: “This bill was designed to criminalize organizations and activists who oppose the U.S.'s unconditional support of Israel's genocide of Palestinians and the slaughter of Lebanese civilians.” 

Signatories to the statement included the Council on American-Islamic Relations and American Muslims for Palestine.  Oxfam criticized the bill, saying Trump could use it to silence and censor critics, curb free speech and target political opponents.

[ SOURCE:  DEMOCRACY NOW ]