Today Cause of Action took three actions to push back against the IRS’s proposed regulations concerning political activity by nonprofits.

1. A request for the IRS to extend the comment period for its proposed rules affecting 501(c)(4) social welfare organizations.

2. An Information Quality Act petition challenging the IRS’s paperwork burden estimate for its proposed rules restricting 501(c)(4) social welfare organizations.

3. A lawsuit seeking for the court to:

 a. Delay the IRS issuing a final rule until the IRS produces responsive records; and

b. Order the IRS to re-open the comment period on the proposed rule after the IRS produces all responsive records.

Cause of Action Executive Director Dan Epstein commented:

“The IRS’ proposed regulation is simply a back door attempt to stifle political opponents, to protect Administration policies, and to restrict and hamper grassroots education regarding the Constitution, limited-government, and economic freedom. We’ve seen a pattern spanning decades of the IRS being used to deter political dissenters and stifle criticism.  The government’s proposed rules continue this pattern and are but one more example of the Executive Branch abusing its administrative power.  Every American is entitled to government transparency and accountability which is why Cause of Action is filing this lawsuit.”