[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 59 (Tuesday, May 12, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E835]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        RELIGIOUS LIBERTY AND CHARITABLE DONATION PROTECTION ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. RON PACKARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 12, 1998

  Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, this week the Senate will consider the 
Religious Liberty and Charitable Donation Protection Act, legislation 
which was introduced by Senator Charles Grassley (R-IA). As you may 
know, the Senate bill mirrors H.R. 2604, which I introduced here in the 
House of Representatives last year. This bill plays an integral role in 
protecting organizations that are very important to me-our churches and 
charities.
  Senator Grassley and I introduced the legislation after hearing 
reports that churches and charities were being subjected to damaging 
lawsuits by creditors and bankruptcy trustees. A 1992 Minnesota court 
decision allowed a creditor to recapture thousands in past tithes from 
congregation members. As a result, lawyers across the nation have sued 
churches and charities, demanding that they repay debtors' past 
contributions.
  Churches and charities should not be regarded as ``cash-cows'' for 
greedy attorneys. Mr. Speaker, this is having an absolutely devastating 
effect on religious and charitable organizations across the nation. 
Lawyers are well aware that most churches and charities don't have the 
resources to fight a creditor in court. Without protection, every 
collection plate in America is a risk.
  I applaud Senator Grassley for his leadership in the progression of 
the Religious Liberty and Charitable Donation Protection Act through 
the Senate. H.R. 2604 is being considered by the House Judiciary 
Committee today, and I am hopeful that it will pass and be presented 
before the full House. Mr. Speaker, I urge you to expedite the movement 
of this legislation so that it might return to the floor for a vote and 
take effect for the sake of our churches and charities.

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