Press Releases

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House of Representatives unanimously passed H.R. 4903 by voice vote. This legislation prohibits the use of funds by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to target citizens for exercising their First Amendment rights, and was authored by Congressman Rick Allen (R-Ga.-12).  H.R. 4903 works to protect taxpayers from unconstitutional scrutiny and discrimination by the IRS based on their beliefs and views.

"Americans have not forgotten the targeting scandal at the IRS, when known Tea Party and other conservative groups were singled out when trying to apply for tax-exempt status.  The Obama Administration may have chosen not to prosecute the ring leader, Lois Lerner, for her unconstitutional actions, but Congress has a responsibility to speak for the people of this country.

I was proud to introduce legislation to protect Americans’ constitutional rights and prevent the IRS and its rogue agency bureaucrats from further abusing their power. Every year, Americans pay their taxes. They should not be further burdened with the fear that they may be singled out for their strongly held beliefs and convictions. It is disappointing that it takes an act of Congress to remind the IRS that the Constitution is the law of the land – and that they must abide by it.

I thank my colleagues for their bipartisan and unanimous support of this legislation. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) has introduced a companion bill in the Senate and I urge them to quickly take up this measure. Congress holds the purse strings and we must tighten our grip before the IRS strikes again,” said Rep. Rick Allen.

Click HERE to watch Rep. Rick Allen discuss H.R. 4903 on the House floor.

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