A senator has dismissed Republican efforts to exempt a select few religious institutions, like Hillsdale University, from taxation on university contributions. This comes amid a proposed GOP bill aimed at significantly increasing taxes on donations from affluent universities, while specifically exempting Hillsdale, a Christian liberal arts college in Michigan, which has enlisted lobbyists to avoid tax implications.
Elizabeth McDonough from the Capitol has also voiced her opposition to certain bills trying to ease restrictions on gun silencers and concealed firearms under the National Firearms Act. These changes are bundled into a large budget adjustment package that Senate Majority Leader John Tune (R-D) hopes to push through by July 4th.
The gun industry, along with many firearm enthusiasts, is prioritizing the relaxation of these silencer restrictions. A Republican plan that passed in the House removes the existing $200 tax and the stricter background checks necessary for acquiring a suppressor.
“We have eliminated parts of this bill that negatively impact families and workers, but there’s still a lot to sort out, as Democrats keep pushing against these provisions that breach Senate rules,” said one official.
“Republicans are busy reshaping key aspects of this bill to cater to families’ setbacks, with billionaires trying to dominate the agenda, yet Democrats are closely examining all amendments to uphold the rules,” they remarked.
On the other hand, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a fervent advocate for gun control, criticized the move to loosen suppressor restrictions. He emphasized that silencer ownership isn’t illegal in the U.S. but insists that potential owners should demonstrate responsible ownership rather than exploit this tool for criminal purposes. “The current law has been effective for years, so there’s really no need for change,” Murphy stated.
Congress has also compromised on various provisions within the bill, which includes establishing new federal grants for private and religious educational institutions and creating a pre-certification process for those seeking earned income tax credits (EITCs). This new requirement mandates that individuals verify their child’s eligibility for the credits.
McDonough announced her decision late Thursday, shortly after rejecting a Republican initiative aimed at limiting state healthcare provider taxes for boosting federal Medicaid funding.
Senate Democrats contend that they are opposed to proposed legislation that seeks to cut federal programs and expenditure by $250 billion, compelling Republicans to revise the core elements of President Trump’s much-discussed bill.
