IRS Faces Staffing Cuts: The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has experienced another leadership shake-up, marking the third turnover at the bureau since tax week began. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on Friday that he had appointed his deputy, Michael Faulkender, to become the acting commissioner of the IRS. Faulkender will take over from Gary Shapley, who held the position for just days following Melanie Krause’s departure on Tuesday.
Faulkender’s Appointment
Bessent expressed confidence in Faulkender’s ability to lead the IRS, stating that he trusts him to bring stability and reform to the agency. “Trust must be brought back to the IRS, and I am fully confident that Deputy Secretary Michael Faulkender is the right man for the moment,” Bessent said in a statement.
Shapley’s Role
Shapley, who became a hero among conservatives after his testimony before Congress in July 2023, will remain a senior advisor to Bessent. Shapley and fellow IRS whistleblower Joseph Ziegler will conduct a yearlong investigation into IRS reforms, after which Bessent said he will ensure they are both in senior government roles that will enable the results of their investigation to translate into meaningful policy changes.
Krause’s Resignation
Krause resigned as acting commissioner of the IRS on Tuesday, just days before Shapley’s appointment. Her resignation came after the IRS agreed to share sensitive tax information related to undocumented immigrants with the Department of Homeland Security. The agreement was revealed in a partially redacted document filed in a case challenging the legality of the IRS sharing individuals’ tax information with external agencies.
Still on IRS Faces Staffing Cuts
Leadership Uncertainty
The IRS has experienced significant leadership turnover since Donald Trump took office in January. Doug O’Donnell resigned in February, and his predecessor, Danny Werfel, resigned on Inauguration Day. Trump has nominated Former Republican Rep. Billy Long for the role of IRS commissioner, but his confirmation is awaiting Senate approval.
Staff Cuts
The uncertainty regarding the bureau’s leadership comes as the IRS is facing significant staff cuts. The cuts are intended to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the IRS but include a 75% reduction of the IRS’s Office of Civil Rights and Compliance. These cuts may impact the agency’s ability to serve taxpayers and enforce tax laws.
Impact on Taxpayers
The leadership turmoil at the IRS may have implications for taxpayers, who may face challenges in getting assistance and resolving issues with the agency. The IRS plays a critical role in collecting taxes and providing services to taxpayers, and stability in leadership is essential to ensuring that the agency can fulfill its responsibilities effectively.
Trump’s Ukraine War Solution Under Scrutiny, Says Rubio
Would you like to Earn Money Online with just your mobile device?
If yes then click on the link below:
https://earnbean.ng/
