Thomas Daschle: “I support the Coverdell-Glenn substitute amendment to establish criminal penalties for unauthorized inspection of tax…”

“I support the Coverdell-Glenn substitute amendment to establish criminal penalties for unauthorized inspection of tax returns and tax information. Penalties already exist for unauthorized disclosure of these documents. It is only fair and reasonable that these be extended to unauthorized inspection as well, particularly in light of the recent revelations involving misbehavior by some IRS employees. Tax filings are privileged, private information. Taxpayers have a right to know that the information they provide the IRS will be seen only by those who process it in the normal course of Government business. I would like to salute Senator Glenn, in particular, for his steadfast advocacy of this legislation over the years. The distinguished Senator from Ohio was ahead of his time when, years ago, he proposed the changes incorporated into the legislation before the Senate today. On behalf of the taxpayers of my State, I would like to thank him for his leadership on this important issue. I also want to thank Senator Coverdell and others who have been involved in this effort.”