FR 2024-30466

Overview

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced its intention to collaborate with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in a new program named Taxpayer Address Request (TAR). This initiative aims to aid the DOJ in locating individuals who owe debts to the United States by accessing their most current mailing addresses via the IRS. The program is scheduled to commence on January 30, 2025, lasting for 18 months. Rooted in the Privacy Act of 1974 and related legal statutes, this measure seeks to bolster the DOJ's efforts in initiating legal proceedings and enforcing debt collections.

Key Concerns

While the TAR program is crafted with a specific legal underpinning, several crucial issues merit attention:

1. Privacy Protections: Although laws authorizing information sharing between the IRS and DOJ are cited, there is scant detail on how taxpayer privacy will be safeguarded beyond these existing legal provisions. The mechanisms for protecting sensitive data amidst these exchanges remain largely unspecified.

2. Security Risks: There might be apprehensions concerning the safety of the data as it flows between the IRS and DOJ. Given the sensitivity of taxpayer information, concerns surrounding data breaches or the potential for misuse of personal details are valid and warrant thorough risk assessment and mitigation strategies.

3. Complex Legal References: The notice integrates various legal codes and statutory references without much context or explanation, which could pose comprehension challenges for individuals not versed in legalese. This complexity might be a barrier for those seeking to understand the underlying frameworks or their implications.

4. Technical Language: The notice employs technical terms, particularly concerning how taxpayer identifiers like Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and Name Controls are used. For a general audience, this might impede understanding without further simplification.

5. Data Access and Retention: The document does not clearly outline protocols for ensuring that only authorized personnel can access the matched data or clarify the duration for which this data will be stored. Transparency in these operations would be critical for public trust.

Broader Public Impact

At a broader level, this program could significantly impact public confidence in governmental processes relating to the use and protection of personal information. Effective implementation will require a balance between enforcing debt collection and upholding rigorous privacy standards. Clear communication of protections and safeguards is necessary to reassure the public and maintain trust in governmental entities handling sensitive data.

Stakeholder Impacts

Public Stakeholders: Taxpayers owing debts to the federal government might find themselves more efficiently identified and contacted regarding their obligations. While this could expedite the resolution of outstanding debts, it might also heighten concerns over privacy and data security.

Government Agencies: For the DOJ and IRS, the program represents an opportunity to streamline processes and improve the efficiency of debt collections. However, these agencies must navigate the dual pressures of achieving operational objectives while safeguarding personal information and upholding privacy standards.

In conclusion, while the TAR program seeks to enhance the DOJ's capacity to manage federal debts, it must tread carefully, ensuring taxpayer information is well-protected and used judiciously. Addressing the potential concerns and enhancing clarity around operational details will be foundational to its successful and sustainable implementation.