Senate Democrats Move to Eliminate $2 Billion DOJ Settlement Fund Created by IRS Agreement

Senate Democrats are preparing amendments to eliminate a nearly $2 billion Department of Justice fund established through a recent IRS settlement. The fund has drawn criticism from both parties since its announcement last month. The settlement that created the fund was reached between the administration and the IRS.

Lawmakers returned from recess to resume work on a budget reconciliation package that includes $72 billion for immigration enforcement over three and a half years. During a closed-door meeting with the acting attorney general, multiple Republican senators questioned whether the fund would include safeguards to bar individuals convicted of assaulting police officers from receiving payments.

Some members also expressed frustration that the fund's announcement came days before reconciliation votes were scheduled.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote to colleagues that Democrats will offer amendments to shut the fund down during the upcoming vote-a-rama. "This week, Senate Democrats will launch a coordinated effort to kill the slush fund before one cent goes out the door," Schumer stated in the letter.

He added that Democrats will pursue the issue through reconciliation, floor action, or appropriations if necessary.

One proposed amendment would bar anyone convicted of rape or sexual assault from accessing the fund. The Department of Justice has stated that the fund is not part of the reconciliation request and is unrelated to the immigration spending package.