Press Releases

On Tuesday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congresswoman Suzan DelBene’s (WA-01) Taxpayer Advocate Participation Act (TAPA). This bipartisan legislation, led with Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17), authorizes the National Taxpayer Advocate (NTA) to file amicus briefs in federal tax cases on issues that may broadly affect taxpayer rights. The NTA is currently barred from submitting amicus briefs in federal tax litigation, even in major precedent-setting cases. 

“American taxpayers deserve to have an independent voice represent them in court, especially in cases that could impact them and their tax bill. This bipartisan bill will allow the National Taxpayer Advocate to weigh in on behalf of millions of Americans in these vital cases,” said DelBene. “I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their efforts to get this through the Ways and Means Committee and now the House so we can better advocate for taxpayers.”

“American taxpayers deserve someone in their corner when their rights are at stake in federal court,” said Steube. “The National Taxpayer Advocate already fights for taxpayers across the country, but current law does not authorize the Advocate to weigh in on court cases that could impact millions of Americans. My bill closes that gap and makes sure the taxpayer’s voice is heard. I’m pleased to see the House pass TAPA, and I urge the Senate to get it to President Trump’s desk.”

The bill does not authorize the NTA to represent individual taxpayers, but ensures the Advocate’s systemic expertise can inform judicial proceedings. 

TAPA is backed by key organizations, including the National Taxpayers Union, Small Business & Entrepreneurship (SBE) Council, Intuit, 60 Plus Association, and National Association of Consumer Advocates.

The bill unanimously passed the House Ways & Means Committee on July 1, 2026. Following this week’s passage in the House, TAPA now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.