Independent Women’s Law Center, joined by 68 other amici, has filed an amicus brief with the United States Supreme Court in the case of First Choice Women’s Resource Centers v. Platkin. The filing addresses concerns about donor privacy following subpoenas issued by the New Jersey Attorney General to a private nonprofit organization, requesting extensive information including donor identities.
The coalition argues that compelled disclosure of donors could discourage individuals from contributing to organizations due to fears over their privacy. This, they contend, may also suppress the speech and association rights of both donors and organizations.
Beth Parlato, senior legal advisor for Independent Women’s Law Center, stated: “Potential donors of private organizations certainly expect anonymity in making their donation, and their privacy must be protected against government officials’ abuse of power to advance a political agenda. Threats of donor disclosure will cause harm to organizations like Independent Women; it is crucial that the Supreme Court grant the petition for certiorari and reverse the decision below.”
The Supreme Court’s decision on whether to hear this case could have broad implications for how states handle requests for donor information from nonprofit groups.
