Prioritizing Troops Over Tax Collectors Act of 2023 This bill establishes the rate of basic pay for a member of the uniformed services at the minimum amount of $31,200. It transfers unobligated amounts made available to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 for enforcement activities to pay for the increase in basic pay. The bill also prohibits the IRS from hiring additional employees until the increase in the rate of basic pay is implemented.
If enacted, HB 161 would directly impact federal budgeting processes by reallocating resources from the IRS to the Department of Defense. This move signifies a shift in fiscal priorities, highlighting a preference for military funding over tax collection and enforcement capabilities, potentially affecting IRS hiring practices. Specifically, the bill also includes a provision that prohibits the IRS from hiring additional employees until the new pay rate for military personnel is implemented.
House Bill 161, titled the 'Prioritizing Troops Over Tax Collectors Act of 2023,' is aimed at increasing the minimum rate of basic pay for members of the Armed Forces to $31,200. This legislative proposal is significant as it prioritizes the compensation of active-duty soldiers over the operations of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). To fund this pay increase, the bill proposes to transfer unobligated funds from the IRS, derived from resources allocated under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, to the Department of Defense.
The bill's focus on reducing IRS resources and tying military pay to IRS funding may raise concerns among legislators and advocacy groups. Supporters of the bill might argue that it reflects a commitment to supporting the military. However, critics may contend that limiting IRS capacity could hinder tax collection efforts and enforcement, which is vital for maintaining federal revenue. The potential impact on IRS staffing raises questions about the balance between military support and maintaining effective government functions related to tax administration.