IRS Decision to Share Tax Information Sparks Controversy
Introduction
In 2022, undocumented immigrants contributed approximately $100 billion in taxes at local, state, and federal levels. However, recent developments concerning the sharing of their tax information with immigration authorities have raised significant concerns among immigrant advocacy groups and municipal leaders.
IRS’s Confidentiality Assurance Undermined
Traditionally, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) assured undocumented taxpayers that their information would remain confidential. Recently, however, the agency has consented to share certain tax records with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stirring a fierce backlash.
Legal Actions and Advocacy Responses
In response to the IRS’s decision, immigrant advocacy organizations have initiated a lawsuit aimed at legally preventing this information exchange. They argue that such measures threaten the safety and security of not just undocumented individuals, but also those who possess legal residency or are in the process of obtaining citizenship.
Political Stance Against Cooperation
In San Francisco, local government officials have voiced their disapproval of this development. Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman articulated the broader implications, stating, “This is not just a threat to undocumented immigrants. This is a threat to people with status, to people who have been here for decades and longer, to people who have green cards, to people who are applying for citizenship.”
Reaffirming City Policies
In a display of solidarity with the immigrant community, Supervisor Bilal Mahmood introduced a resolution today reaffirming the city’s commitment to non-cooperation with any identity-based registry that may arise from this policy. This resolution seeks to protect the rights and privacy of all residents, regardless of their immigration status.
