In the News

The Internal Revenue Service could be getting its first redesign in more than two decades under the bipartisian Taxpayer First Act, which was approved by Congress last week.

The bill, H.R. 3151, was introduced earlier this month by U.s. Rep. John Lewis, D-Georgia. It seeks to revise requirements for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding its organizational structure, customer service, enforcement procedures, cybersecurity and identity protection, management of information technology, and use of electronic systems.

Provisions of the bill include increasing penalties for failure to file tax returns, requiring the IRS to implement an online platform for filing 1099 forms, developing “comprehensive customer service and IRS personnel training strategies” and requiring the appointment of a chief information officer who will “develop and implement a multiyear strategic plan for IRS information technology needs,” among others.

The bill also asks the IRS to provide notification to taxpayers of suspected identity theft, establish requirements for cybersecurity and identify protection and would modify procedures for whistle blowers.

On Friday, House Democrats and Republicans held a bill enrollment ceremony for the bipartisan legislation.

“This was the most important pass in consumer protections for the IRS in almost two decades and it was done in a bipartisan manner,” said Rep. Richard Neal, D-Massachusetts, chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means in a statement. “This significant achievement puts American taxpayers first.”

The bill was passed by the House and Senate on June 13 and is expected to be approved by President Trump.