Well, this should keep us from having to keep such a close vigil:
Faler, B. (2019, January 7). Treasury weighing whether to issue tax refunds during shutdown. Retrieved January 7, 2019, from
https://politi.co/2Fa8lORKey quotes:
Quote:Officials have been examining the issue exhaustively, a senior administration official said, and expect to have answers around midweek.
“We’re trying to figure out legally what the right answer is here — what we’re allowed to do,” the official said. “If it was settled, I’d tell you, but it’s not.
Quote:Treasury's decision will include details like when this year’s filing season will begin, the official said.
The official criticized the “frenzy” of speculation over the prospects of refunds being held up.
“I just don’t know that it’s worth all the time and effort that it's getting,” the official said. “It’s speculation at this point, until the decision is made.”
It seems that the lawyers involved are all thinking this may have to go to a judge because they can argue it to at least two different resolutions but aren't confident about it after the stunt AFGE pulled. The other matter is figuring out how to pay for ERS, TPP, RIO when technically there is no money to do so. Those three things can't be designated "essential" unless Chief Counsel comes out with one heckuva technical opinion. If we just let refunds loose without checking at all, I would be horrified at the losses.
Also:
Everett, B., & Morin, R. (2019, January 7). Trump wages PR war as shutdown talks falter. Retrieved January 7, 2019, from
https://politi.co/2FceRo3POTUS will have a televised address to the nation Tuesday at 9 PM Eastern.
Edited by user Monday, January 7, 2019 12:02:48 PM(UTC)
| Reason: Not specified