• Violators can be subject to a fine of up to $1,000 and/or sentenced to up to one year in prison. Civil Penalties: A taxpayer whose return or return information has been knowingly or negligently inspected or disclosed by an employee in violation of §6103 may seek civil damages.
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The Supreme Court affirmed the power of Congress to obtain President Trump’s tax returns. Presumably there was a legislative purpose. But the Court did not, could not, empower Congress to release the returns to the public. This is a violation of federal law. No court can authorize you to break the law. The Democrat-controlled House committee has no more power to publicize Trump’s returns than I have power to publicize your returns.
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But rest assured, now that the GOP has regained control of the House, we will be seeing tax returns of prominent Democrats. How about George Soros’ returns? Interesting reading. How about the Pelosis’? Intriguing deals back in Baltimore? This is a terrible precedent sure to stir up big trouble, and incompatible with a constitutional republic.
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I don’t want to see people’s tax returns, or snoop into their health records, or peer at their confidential attorney-client communications, or rummage through their wives’ underwear. But hey, that’s just me.
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