WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement ahead of a vote on H.R. 9495:

“I strongly support the provisions in H.R. 9495 that stop the IRS from penalizing people who haven’t filed their taxes because they are being held as hostages overseas and cut off potential funding streams to terrorist organizations.”

“In speaking to nonprofit leaders in New Hampshire doing vital work to increase housing, fight the opioid and addiction epidemic, and help families and small businesses thrive, it is clear that those who do this work every day in my district have concerns that more guardrails are needed to ensure this legislation is properly implemented.”

“For that reason, I will vote against H.R. 9495 on the floor today and will work with New Hampshire’s nonprofit community to advocate for updates to the legislation that guarantees tax-exempt organizations can never aid terror organizations while providing needed safeguards to ensure that good actors are not wrongly targeted.”

“I remain committed to listening to the people of the First District and putting New Hampshire first. That includes continuing to do all I can to lower costs for families, address pressing needs like housing and childcare, and ensure our economy continues to grow.”