Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Friday completed a week of action in the House of Representatives against government abuse. Congressman Brad Wenstrup joined the majority of members to support several legislative steps that place restraints on the federal bureaucracy. Nearly a dozen bills passed that would require greater transparency for federal regulations and mandates, enhanced protections for taxpayers at the hands of the IRS, and strengthen certain consumer protections.

“The federal government has to get out of the way, whether it’s in the pocketbook, the doctor’s office, or the gas pump. Ohioans witnessed firsthand the overreach of the IRS, targeting Ohioans for their political beliefs.” Wenstrup said. “It’s frightening for any citizen to single-handedly go up against the might of the federal government, and I believe these bills will help protect taxpayers against future abuse.”

Justin Binik-Thomas, a citizen in Ohio’s Second Congressional District, was singled out by the IRS in 2012. A number of the bills Wenstrup supported this week are aimed at stopping similar abuse.

To date, the IRS has failed to address Justin’s case.  Justin has said “since his election my congressman has stood up to the overreach of government.  It’s welcome relief to see the House of Representatives take legislative action to prevent future IRS targeting and abuse.” Recently, the IRS proposed rules to make their behavior, deemed “unacceptable” by the president, into law

Cincinnati was ground zero in IRS targeting of Americans for political affiliation, first uncovered in 2013. The House of Representatives continues to press the agency for answers and reforms. Wenstrup also signed a public comment to the IRS against proposed regulations that would further limit civic group participation and voter education efforts.

Legislative Background: A full list of bills that passed the House this week can be found at www.wenstrup.house.gov/StopGovtAbuse.

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Office of Representative Brad Wenstrup