Union and Taxpayer Groups Challenge DOGE in Lawsuit Over IRS Data Access

On Monday, various taxpayer and union groups filed a lawsuit accusing the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, of breaching several laws in its efforts to uncover and eradicate wasteful government spending. This announcement marks a significant step in the ongoing debate about government accountability and data access.

The plaintiffs allege that DOGE initiated a widespread effort to access sensitive information systems in a manner that exceeds executive authority and undermines the privacy protections afforded to civil servants and citizens respectively.

Established by an executive order earlier this year, DOGE exists as a temporary entity within the White House. Its primary missions involve optimizing government functions, streamlining operations, and significantly cutting government expenses within an 18-month window.

Shortly after DOGE’s actions came to light, concerns grew regarding its reach within major federal departments, including Treasury, Labor, Education, Health, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The lawsuit specifically points to DOGE’s unauthorized access as a violation of the Tax Reform Act, Privacy Act, and the Administrative Procedures Act.

Concerns Over Sensitive Information

The lawsuit asserts that without intervention from the courts, DOGE’s operations could lead to catastrophic consequences. The groups involved fear that DOGE could gain access to sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, individual financial data, and bank account details.

Moreover, the plaintiffs claim that DOGE’s reach extends into confidential business data, tax records, and ongoing IRS investigations, including those that may pertain to Elon Musk’s enterprises or those of his rivals.