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HB 1394

Civil Actions - Nonprofit Organizations - Unauthorized Support of Israeli Settlement Activity (Not On Our Dime Act)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Gabriel Acevero and 4 co-sponsors

Maryland bill allows donor lawsuits against nonprofits using contributions for Israeli settlements without explicit consent, targeting nonprofit transparency but raising First Amendment concerns.

Hearing 3/05 at 3:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1394

Legislative bill overview

HB 1394 would allow Maryland residents to bring civil lawsuits against nonprofit organizations that use donated funds to support Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank without explicit donor consent. The bill creates a private right of action for donors who believe their contributions were misused for this specific purpose.

Why is this important

This bill directly addresses donor accountability and nonprofit transparency by giving contributors legal recourse if organizations use their money for purposes they didn't authorize. It reflects growing national debate over how nonprofits disclose their charitable spending, particularly regarding foreign policy activities that donors may oppose.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Critics argue the bill targets speech and political activity based on viewpoint, potentially violating nonprofits' constitutional rights to support causes without government interference
  • Definitional ambiguity: "Israeli settlement activity" lacks precise legal definition, creating uncertainty about which activities trigger liability and exposing nonprofits to litigation over subjective interpretations
  • Selective application: Opponents contend the bill singles out one geopolitical conflict/cause rather than establishing neutral nonprofit accountability standards applicable across all charitable activities and donor disputes
  • Enforcement burden: The private right of action may inundate nonprofits with lawsuits and discovery demands, regardless of merit, creating chilling effects on legitimate charitable work

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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