IRS: Rule would hurt nonprofits

I believe many federal regulations are made by honest people trying to solve problems, but not realizing the devastating effects each new rule can have in the real world of people affected. That seems to be the case with “Donee Substantiation under Section 170(f)(8)” of IRS proposed changes.

Apparently they want non-profits to ask, keep and report Social Security Numbers of all donors over $250. I’m always leery of scary bits of news, knowing they are often hoaxes, but this looks true, and touches a critical part of our society.

A requirement, even one that has voluntary aspects at first, of reporting Social Security numbers, would place an additional record-keeping burden on voluntary organizations, and would raise the risk of liability and identity theft especially in smaller projects who don’t have full time bookkeepers.

After a career of nonprofit work, I believe this would put a damper on the giving which is lifeblood to organizations we hold dear. I understand the need such a rule might seem to meet, but the cost is counterproductive. Some problems will not be solved by writing more rules. The official public content period is just another day or two. I hope people will get a message to our federal legislators, if anyone can get one to listen, that unless they want the terrible mess of government trying to meet every possible public need, they should encourage the charitable work by which we the people provide for each other in ways that ought not be left to government.

Yes, check out and be suspicious of some “charitable” donations, but don’t do it by hurting our churches, charities and community projects.

MIKE BULLARD

Coeur d’Alene