US Federal 2023-2024 Regular Session

US Federal Senate Bill SCR8

Introduced
3/23/23  

Caption

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that tax-exempt fraternal benefit societies have historically provided and continue to provide critical benefits to the people and communities of the United States.

Impact

The proposed resolution highlights the essential role of fraternal benefit societies as an economic and social support system, alleviating unmet needs that government programs often cannot address effectively. It underscores the considerable financial resources generated by these organizations, which are estimated to amount to over $3.8 billion annually through charitable giving and volunteer services. Additionally, it recognizes the historical exemption from taxation under section 501(c)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, which allows these societies to operate efficiently and sustainably.

Summary

SCR8 expresses the sense of Congress regarding the significance of tax-exempt fraternal benefit societies in providing crucial benefits to the communities of the United States. These societies, which have a rich history spanning over a century, are noted for their ability to meet various needs, including the provision of life, health, and accident benefits to their members. By uniting individuals with a common purpose, fraternal benefit societies not only support their members but also contribute to broader charitable activities, enhancing social cohesion across communities.

Contention

While SCR8 is primarily a resolution of recognition, it reflects ongoing conversations about the future role of fraternal benefit societies in the evolving socio-economic landscape. Supporters argue that these organizations are valuable for providing essential benefits and reducing reliance on government welfare systems. However, potential contention arises regarding the balance between taxation and the support these organizations provide, as well as discussions on whether these entities sufficiently meet the needs of the communities they serve or if reforms are required to enhance their impact.

Companion Bills

US HCR28

Same As Expressing the sense of Congress that tax-exempt fraternal benefit societies have historically provided and continue to provide critical benefits to the people and communities of the United States.

Previously Filed As

US SCR6

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that tax-exempt fraternal benefit societies have historically provided and continue to provide critical benefits to the people and communities of the United States.

US HCR4

Expressing the sense of Congress that tax-exempt fraternal benefit societies have historically provided and continue to provide critical benefits to the people and communities of the United States.

US SR37

This resolution expresses the Senate’s sense that the Department of Health and Human Services should provide the public with continuous access to timely, up-to-date, and accurate health information.

US SR158

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that paraprofessionals and education support staff should have fair compensation, benefits, and working conditions.

US SCR5

This concurrent resolution states that, unless it is approved by Congress, the proposed joint interpretation of Annex 14-C of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) prepared by Ambassador Katherine Tai (1) is of no legal effect with respect to the United States or any U.S. person, and (2) cannot be invoked by any federal agency in any legal proceeding nor may a federal agency assert that it has any legal consequences for claims made by a U.S. person. (Annex 14-C of the USMCA concerns certain investment claims under the North American Free Trade Agreement, the agreement which preceded USMCA.)

US SR716

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding critical elements of the United States policy towards the People's Republic of China.

US HCR25

Expressing the sense of Congress that Trump administration tariffs on Mexico and Canada are in violation of the United States of America-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

US SR481

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States Department of Agriculture should use its contingency funds and interchange authority to finance the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

US SR68

This resolution states it is the sense of the Senate that the United States will not deploy U.S. Armed Forces, risk U.S. lives, or use U.S. funds to take over Gaza.  

US SR36

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States, States, cities, Tribal nations, businesses, institutions of higher education, and other institutions in the United States should work toward achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.