SB338, known as the IRS Funding Accountability Act, aims to ensure accountability regarding the funding allotted to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Department of Treasury following the provisions of Public Law 117-169. The bill mandates that the IRS develops and submits a comprehensive spending plan detailing how the funds will be utilized over several fiscal years. This plan must provide specific information on anticipated costs, outcomes, and defined measurements to assess improvements in taxpayer services, information technology, and cybersecurity.
The bill requires the Commissioner of the IRS to submit this spending plan within 60 days after the law's enactment, outlining expected expenditures, including metrics that will measure the effectiveness and efficiency of resource allocation. It also introduces restrictions on when funds can be obligated until relevant Congressional committees have approved this spending plan, placing greater scrutiny on how IRS funding is managed and used.
Moreover, SB338 compels the IRS to issue quarterly reports detailing all expenditures and obligations of the appropriated funds, alongside their effectiveness in delivering taxpayer services. This approach is intended to enhance transparency and hold the IRS accountable for its financial decisions, prioritizing taxpayer responsiveness and service enhancement. The Act requires a detailed analysis of IRS performance in delivering taxpayer services, aiming for improved services such as reduced wait times and efficient processing of taxpayer correspondence.
A key area of contention surrounding the bill may stem from the increased oversight it mandates over IRS operations, which could be viewed as a tightening of federal control over how taxpayer dollars are utilized. Advocates for the legislation argue that it is essential for improving accountability and efficiency within the IRS, while opponents might express concerns over potential excessive bureaucratic hurdles in implementing necessary funding for taxpayer services. Overall, the IRS Funding Accountability Act represents a significant attempt to reform how the IRS disburses funds and manages taxpayer services, aiming for better reporting and operational efficiency.