Maricopa chamber joins 18 others to lobby Congress to keep nonprofit status
Maricopa chamber joins 18 others to lobby Congress to keep nonprofit status
Maricopa’s Greater Maricopa Business Alliance joined Chambers of Commerce from across Arizona urging federal lawmakers to protect the tax-exempt status of nonprofit organizations. It was their effort to lobby lawmakers as Congress considers sweeping federal tax reform.
The letter, addressed to ten Arizona senators and representatives, emphasizes the vital role chambers and other nonprofit groups play in supporting local economies, providing essential services, and filling critical gaps left by government programs.
“We are committed to supporting our businesses and non-profits, whose work is vital to the health and stability of our local economy and community,” the letter reads.
Chambers argue that removing or weakening nonprofit tax exemptions would jeopardize the missions of organizations that deliver key services in areas such as education, healthcare, nutrition, workforce development, and the arts. Many of these nonprofits, including chambers themselves, rely on donations and grants, and an increased tax burden could significantly restrict their operations.
“These private sector organizations step in to help when the government can’t or shouldn’t,” the letter states. “Without the work of nonprofits and associations, many critical services could become more expensive or inaccessible for people in need.”
Greater Maricopa Business Alliance President Kelly Anderson echoed that.
“These nonprofits are vital,” said Anderson. “They’re filling such an important role.”
Tax-exempt status for charitable organizations has been enshrined in U.S. law for over a century. The letter calls on lawmakers to reaffirm that longstanding commitment in 2025, as part of broader tax policy debates.
“Increasing taxes on these organizations would not only undermine their efforts but also have a ripple effect on the communities they serve,” the chambers wrote.
The letter is signed by more than a dozen chambers from all corners of the state, including those representing Apache Junction, Flagstaff, Mesa, Nogales, and the Greater Phoenix area.
Three Pinal Chambers of Commerce signed the letter: Coolidge Chamber of Commerce, Greater Maricopa Business Alliance and Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce.
Source: Google News
