In a letter addressed to IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel, House Republican Rep. Stephanie Bice of Oklahoma has raised “growing concern” over reports suggesting that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has spent close to $10 million on weapons and tactical gear in the past three years.
The letter, dated Tuesday, demands a comprehensive account of the weaponry and gear owned by the IRS.
While acknowledging the law enforcement role of the Criminal Investigation division within the IRS, Rep. Bice expressed unease over the agency’s substantial purchases of weaponry and tactical equipment. Noting that the IRS is a civilian agency with a mission to provide taxpayers with top-quality service and enforce tax responsibilities with integrity and fairness, Rep. Bice highlighted the issue of increasing militarization within the IRS.