IRS Workforce Reduction Proposed Amid Cost-Cutting Measures
According to Cointelegraph, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is proposing a significant reduction in the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) workforce, aiming for a 20% cut by May 15, 2025. This move could affect approximately 6,800 employees, adding to the 6,700 probationary employees already dismissed and 4,700 IRS agents who accepted severance packages for retirement.A recent ruling by U.S. district judge William Alsup may complicate these layoffs. The judge ordered federal agencies to reinstate probationary workers terminated due to DOGE's cost-cutting initiatives, potentially obstructing the planned workforce reduction unless the ruling is overturned.U.S. President Donald Trump has pledged comprehensive tax reform, including the possible elimination of federal income tax, proposing to fund the federal government solely through tariffs on foreign goods. This aligns with DOGE's broader strategy, led by businessman Elon Musk, to address the $36 trillion U.S. national debt by downsizing federal bureaucracy and implementing cost-saving measures.Among the innovative proposals is the idea of putting all public spending onchain to enhance transparency and reduce deficits. In line with these directives, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced on February 21 that it would cut its regional office directors, although the offices themselves will remain operational. The SEC has submitted its 2025 budget proposal to Congress, requesting $2.6 billion.President Trump and Elon Musk have considered redistributing 20% of the savings from DOGE's initiatives to Americans through stimulus checks or potential tax credits. Research from Dancing Numbers, an accounting automation company, suggests that eliminating federal income tax could save the average American $134,809 over their lifetime, with potential savings reaching $325,561 per person if state-level wage-based taxes are also repealed.Despite these proposals, skepticism remains. U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren has expressed strong criticism of Elon Musk, President Trump, and DOGE's strategies. In January 2025, she sent a letter to DOGE advocating for increased taxes and federal spending to enhance government efficiency. The debate continues as DOGE's cost-cutting measures face scrutiny and opposition from various political figures.