WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 167

Tax exemptions; Confederacy organizations.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 13 co-sponsors

Bill eliminates tax-exempt status for organizations primarily dedicated to commemorating or preserving the Confederacy, reclassifying them as taxable entities.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 788 (effective 7/1/2026)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 167

Legislative bill overview

HB 167 would eliminate tax-exempt status for organizations dedicated to commemorating, promoting, or preserving the Confederacy. The bill narrows the definition of qualifying historical organizations to exclude those whose primary purpose involves Confederate commemoration, effectively reclassifying such groups from charitable to taxable entities.

Why is this important

Tax-exempt status provides significant financial benefits through exemptions from property, income, and sales taxes. This bill would directly impact funding for Confederate monuments, museums, heritage organizations, and related groups by requiring them to pay taxes like for-profit businesses. The measure reflects broader national debates over how public policy engages with Confederate symbolism and historical memory.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Opponents may argue the bill targets organizations based on viewpoint or political message rather than charitable function, raising free speech questions
  • Historical preservation vs. commemoration: Disagreement over whether educating the public about Confederate history differs meaningfully from promoting it, and whether the distinction is constitutionally valid
  • Scope and definition: Ambiguity over what constitutes "primary purpose" of organizations—those claiming educational or genealogical missions could dispute categorization
  • Precedent for selective taxation: Questions about whether government should use tax policy to discourage particular ideological positions or historical perspectives

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

Sign in to ask a question.