‘Catastrophic results’: Union, taxpayer groups take stab at DOGE in latest lawsuit over IRS data access
A recent lawsuit has been filed by multiple taxpayer and union groups against Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), alleging that the agency violated several laws in its efforts to uncover and eliminate wasteful government spending. The groups claim that DOGE engaged in a “sweeping campaign” to access highly-sensitive information systems, which goes against laws that limit executive power, protect civil servants, and safeguard citizens’ data held by the government.
DOGE, which was established by an executive order earlier this year, is a temporary organization within the White House tasked with optimizing the federal government, streamlining operations, and reducing spending within a tight 18-month timeframe. The agency’s actions at various government departments, including the Treasury, Labor, Education, Health, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Personnel Management, and Internal Revenue Service (IRS), have raised concerns about its access to sensitive information systems without proper statutory authority.
Specifically, the lawsuit alleges that DOGE violated the Tax Reform Act, Privacy Act, and Administrative Procedures Act. The groups behind the lawsuit are worried about the potential access DOGE has to confidential information such as social security numbers, financial data, and bank account information. They also expressed concerns about DOGE having access to business information, tax records, and IRS investigations, including those related to Elon Musk’s businesses or his competitors.
The Center for Taxpayer Rights, Main Street Alliance, National Federation of Federal Employees, and Communications Workers of America are seeking a temporary restraining order to prevent DOGE from accessing sensitive data until the court has had a chance to review the agency’s actions. They are requesting that the court declare DOGE’s access unlawful, halt its use of IRS systems, delete any information obtained illegally, and establish new security measures to protect sensitive data.
Despite the lawsuit, a federal judge recently ruled against blocking DOGE from accessing government data or firing federal employees, citing a lack of evidence showing “irreparable harm.” However, the judge did question the unchecked authority of an unelected individual, referring to Elon Musk, and raised concerns about DOGE’s accountability to Congress.
In a separate legal action, Democratic state attorneys general from several states have also sued to temporarily restrict DOGE’s access to federal data concerning government employees, citing worries about Musk’s power and access. The lawsuit emphasizes the dangers of consolidating state power in the hands of a single unelected individual and highlights the importance of maintaining checks and balances within the government.
As the legal battles surrounding DOGE continue, it remains to be seen how the agency’s access to sensitive government data will be regulated and whether Musk’s involvement will face further scrutiny. The outcome of these lawsuits could have significant implications for the agency’s operations and its ability to achieve its goal of cutting government spending and increasing efficiency.
