Summary of HCONRES 4

Bill Number: HCONRES 4

Title: 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.

Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means

Introduced: January 28, 2025

Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HCONRES 4 is a resolution expressing the sense of Congress regarding the importance of tax-exempt fraternal benefit societies in the United States. The bill highlights the historical and ongoing contributions of these societies to their members and the broader community, emphasizing their role in providing essential benefits and support.

Key Provisions

The resolution outlines several key points regarding fraternal benefit societies:

1. Economic and Social Support:
   
   It recognizes the fraternal benefit society model as a successful private sector system that addresses unmet needs within communities.

2. Charitable and Fraternal Activities:
   
   The resolution asserts that the provision of benefits—such as life, health, and accident insurance—under section 501(c)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code is crucial for supporting the charitable and fraternal activities of these societies.

3. Adaptation and Service:
   
   It acknowledges that fraternal benefit societies have evolved since 1909 to better serve their members and the public.

4. Tax Exemption Benefits:
   
   The resolution states that the tax exemption under section 501(c)(8) continues to yield significant returns for the United States and advocates for the promotion of the work done by these societies.

Affected Parties

The resolution primarily affects:

• Fraternal Benefit Societies: Organizations that provide mutual aid and benefits to their members.
• Members of these Societies: Individuals who receive life, health, and accident benefits.
• Communities: Local communities that benefit from the charitable activities and support provided by these societies.

Legislative Actions and Timeline

• January 28, 2025: The resolution was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means for further consideration.

Sponsors

The resolution has a broad bipartisan support base, with numerous cosponsors from both parties, indicating a collective recognition of the value of fraternal benefit societies. Notable sponsors include:

• Darin LaHood (Primary Sponsor)
• Gwen Moore
• Michael Lawler
• Chrissy Houlahan
• Christopher R. Deluzio
• Tom Emmer
• Ron Estes
• Nathaniel Moran
• Lloyd Smucker
• Ann Wagner
• Nikema Williams

Related Legislation

HCONRES 4 has a companion bill, SCONRES 6, which may address similar themes or objectives in the Senate.

This resolution serves as a formal acknowledgment by Congress of the significant role that fraternal benefit societies play in American society, advocating for their continued support and recognition.