All eyes have been on Washington, DC once again as the federal tax bill has taken Capitol Hill by storm. Citizens and organizations of all types and backgrounds have pored over the behemoth 1,000-plus page “big, beautiful bill,” as its provisions are sure to have far-reaching and likely long-lasting ramifications for our country’s economy. The bill barreled through passage in the U.S. House just days after its language was introduced, and leading Republicans are publicizing desire to advance it through the Senate and then to the President for signature by the 4th of July holiday. The current version of this bill includes a number of concerning provisions for nonprofits. These include but are not limited to an increase on the tax rate of net investment income of certain private foundations, a limitation on the tax benefit of itemized deductions (especially impacting high-income taxpayers) and a one-percent floor on deductions of charitable contributions made by corporations. Each of these provisions disincentivizes charitable giving, which could have catastrophic impacts on nonprofit donations. I encourage Oklahomans to contact our U.S. Senators – graciously known for championing the nonprofit sector in the past – and urge them to oppose these tax measures. Oklahoma nonprofits are trusted partners in delivering critical services that improve lives and strengthen communities. Through faith-based programs, food banks, shelters, health services, job training, senior care, arts organizations and much, much more, nonprofits reach Oklahomans where they are and provide support in times of need. These services are deeply rooted in our local communities and often beyond the reach of government alone. Any changes through reconciliation that risk reducing charitable giving incentives mean the ability of nonprofits to serve will be undermined. Programs may be scaled back, staff may be reduced, and in some cases, organizations may be forced to close. That would leave people in our state without the critical services they depend on. It’s important to remember that no legislation exists in a vacuum. The impacts of this bill are concerning on their own, but they are even more troubling when considered in the context of the millions in Oklahoma nonprofit funding cuts already reported due to other government cutbacks, plus a general environment of economic uncertainty. Please join me in making your voice heard to ensure our elected officials remember the importance of Oklahoma nonprofits to our state’s people and economy. We are stronger together!