Overhaul of Internal Revenue System Demanded Amid Concerns
Jason Smith, Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, is spearheading an overhaul of the Internal Revenue System (IRS), denouncing its "lawless and politically motivated behavior" and demanding its immediate de-weaponization.
Letter to IRS Acting Commissioner
In a letter to IRS Acting Commissioner Douglas O’Donnell, Smith outlined his grave concerns, stating, "The story of the last two years at the IRS is one of both failure and outright weaponization of the agency." He cited instances of alleged retaliation against whistleblowers, prioritization of audits over customer service, and inaction against questionable tax-exempt organizations.
Whistleblowers’ Allegations
Smith highlighted the allegations of Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, two IRS whistleblowers who claimed preferential treatment for Hunter Biden and corruption within the agency.
Oversight and Accountability
The House Ways and Means Committee will closely monitor the IRS to ensure compliance with laws and adherence to ethical standards. Smith emphasized, "We will be watching closely to make certain that the IRS timely complies with all requests from our committees."
Shortcomings in Enforcement
Smith pointed to the IRS’s selective enforcement, such as its delay in implementing the unpopular Venmo reporting law and its alleged support of programs that benefited Democratic interests.
Retaliation against Whistleblowers
"The IRS has retaliated against the two brave investigators that blew the whistle on preferential treatment for Hunter Biden," Smith asserted.
Business as Usual is Unacceptable
Smith condemned the agency’s past behavior as "unacceptable" and demanded swift action to restore trust with the American public. "The acting commissioner needs to clean things up quickly to meet the expectations of the committee and the American people have of the agency."
Conclusion
The comprehensive overhaul of the IRS aims to address longstanding issues of misconduct, bias, and ineffective enforcement. The House Ways and Means Committee will exercise its oversight authority to ensure the agency is held accountable and operates in accordance with the law.
