US Senators James Lankford and Todd Young introduced the Protecting Charitable Giving Act on May 14 to address the unlawful disclosure of data identifying donors who contribute to nonprofit organizations. The legislation aims to reinforce existing privacy protections for nonprofit donors and increase penalties for disclosing sensitive taxpayer information.
The topic is significant as it seeks to ensure that individuals can support charitable causes without fear that their identities will be revealed, which could deter donations or expose donors to unwanted attention. According to Lankford, “Nonprofits and their donors are an essential safety net for our communities—providing food, housing, and care to those who need it most. Oklahomans shouldn’t worry about their identities being made public after they provide a donation to a charitable organization. Millions of donors want to do something good without being recognized. We should honor their privacy as they care for others.”
Young said, “Anonymous giving has long been a way for Americans to support philanthropic organizations that rely on generous charitable contributions. In recent years, donor privacy has been threatened on too many occasions. This legislation will address the disclosure of donor data to better protect both charitable organizations and their donors.” The Internal Revenue Service requires tax-exempt organizations to collect names and addresses of major donors; however, this information is considered sensitive and not subject to public disclosure. Attempts by states such as California and New York have sought greater transparency but were blocked by Supreme Court rulings citing First Amendment rights.
Christie Herrera, President and CEO of Philanthropy Roundtable, said, “Philanthropy Roundtable is deeply grateful to Senators Young and Lankford for their unwavering leadership protecting donor privacy. The right to give how, when and where donors choose, free from the fear of persecution and retaliation, is essential… Donor privacy has been under fire for years. This law is needed more than ever…” Brent Gardner from Americans for Prosperity added: “American charities are the lifeblood of this country… It sends a clear message to bureaucrats that they cannot invade American’s privacy without serious consequences.” Both organizations support the bill.
Lankford represents Oklahoma in the United States Senate; he has maintained offices in Washington D.C., Oklahoma City, and Tulsa; directed Falls Creek Youth Camp; ranked as the Senate’s top “Taxpayers Friend” according to National Taxpayers Union; advocated for protecting life, liberty and families; authored an annual Federal Fumbles report offering commonsense solutions—all according to his official website.
The Protecting Charitable Giving Act was previously introduced by Lankford and Young in May 2024.
