Sioux City Times

Yesterday, legislation aimed at enhancing the role of the National Taxpayer Advocate passed in the U.S. House of Representatives without opposition. The National Taxpayer Advocate Enhancement Act was introduced by U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra from Hull.

Representative Feenstra stated, "American taxpayers expect and deserve the best customer service and case outcomes when filing their federal taxes. However, an outdated restriction imposed on the National Taxpayer Advocate prevents her from hiring the team that she needs to do her job. My bill clarifies that it is within the purview of the National Taxpayer Advocate to hire attorneys that report specifically to her."

This legislation aims to allow the National Taxpayer Advocate the authority to hire attorneys who will assist in conducting oversight, ensuring fair treatment of taxpayers, and informing Congress about taxpayer challenges within the IRS. Feenstra expresses that this improvement will lead to fewer issues for American families when dealing with the IRS, emphasizing the need to keep politics out of the IRS while focusing on beneficial outcomes for taxpayers.

Chairman of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee Jason Smith supported the legislation, stating, "At a time when the IRS has singlehandedly undermined its own credibility in the eyes of taxpayers, it is vital that we protect the independence and the integrity of the Office of the National Taxpayer Advocate. This legislation ensures the American people can have faith in that entity to represent their best interests and can trust that its legal advice is not unduly influenced by the IRS." He commended Representative Feenstra for his leadership and advocacy for taxpayer rights.

The proposed act specifically empowers the National Taxpayer Advocate to employ attorneys who will directly support her efforts in serving taxpayers and collaborating with caseworkers.