Joyce Cosponsors the Taxpayer Nondiscrimination and Protection Act of 2013

Press Release

In light of last week's revelation that the Internal Revenue Service has been targeting American taxpayers based on their political beliefs, Rep. Dave Joyce (OH-14) announced today he's cosponsoring the Taxpayer Nondiscrimination & Protection Act of 2013, H.R. 1950. The bill would amend Title 18 of the U.S. Code to make it a crime for an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employee todiscriminate against an individual or group on the basis of their protected rights. Joyce released the following statement:

"Every American has the right to live in a country in which government agencies cannot discriminate against them for their political beliefs. Americans of all political persuasions are outraged by the IRS's actions and have the right to demand answers and accountability. As a former prosecutor, I've always believed in the rule of law and those responsible should be held accountable and face appropriate punishment."

H.R. 1950 was introduced by Rep. Mike Turner (OH-10) and would increase the maximum penalty for discrimination to a $5,000 fine, 5 years in prison, or both. Currently, IRS employees who discriminate against taxpayers may be subject to termination, however at the termination of their supervisors. The bill currently has 21 cosponsors and has been referred to the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Ways and Means.

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