Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH) will introduce legislation Monday to make it a crime for an IRS employee to target individuals or groups on the basis of politics, his office said.
The bill would make such conduct a felony punishable by up to a $5,000 fine, or five years in prison, or both.
“Americans of all political beliefs have been rightly outraged by the revelation of the IRS’ efforts to target certain political organizations,” Turner said in a statement. “The fact that this could occur with little to no corrective action against those who seek to silence their fellow citizens is unacceptable. That’s why I’m taking immediate action and introducing this bill.”
“Americans should not have to wonder if their government is actively looking to subvert them or their political views. We live in a nation where respect for differing beliefs and a vibrant political discourse play an important role in shaping our government. This is about protecting the rights of all Americans, and their ability to freely express their political thoughts.”
Bill Text – The Taxpayer Nondiscrimination and Protection Act of 2013
