You’ve likely seen the Trump Administration’s continued attacks targeting nonprofits on ideological grounds, which most recently threatened to strip Harvard University of its tax-exempt status and used the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to target the Vera Institute of Justice and Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW).
We are now hearing additional executive orders (EOs) targeting nonprofits may be released soon.
While nothing specific has been announced, a focus could include revoking the tax-exempt status of nonprofits working in certain areas, including climate justice and environmental conservationism; blocking grants to organizations working globally or funding overseas work; ending the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program; among others.
We are working closely with partners like the National Council of Nonprofits (NCN) to monitor the situation and share information.
Although the White House said it’s not targeting climate nonprofits’ tax status on Tuesday evening, we’re staying vigilant, prepared, ready.
An important reminder, as we wait for more details: The Administration does not have the authority to unilaterally target nonprofits in this way. Any EOs will be the first word on these attempts – not the last.
Please be assured we are taking these threats very seriously and will provide you with the latest updates and guidance as more information becomes available.
The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits exists to ardently protect you, our nonprofit members, and Minnesota’s nonprofit sector as we navigate these ever-changing challenges, together.
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Related resources
- Myth vs. Reality: Executive Branch Lacks Authority to Target Nonprofit Organizations (National Council of Nonprofits)
- Nonprofits Under Fire: How the IRS Can – and Cannot – Revoke Federal Tax-Exempt Status (Tenenbaum Law Group PLLC)
- Executive Orders Affecting Nonprofits (updated April 17, 2025; MCN)
- What is an Executive Order? (American Bar Association)
- Resources to Navigate Uncertainty (MCN)
- Executive Order Specific Resources (MCN)