How Trump’s IRS settlement could block tax audits of him, his family and their businesses

BBC:

The US Department of Justice has announced that this week’s unprecedented settlement of President Donald Trump’s lawsuit over the leaking of his tax returns blocks the IRS from reviewing tax filings that Trump, his family and his businesses made in the past.

Some lawmakers and legal experts say the department has violated federal law with its addendum to the settlement that shuts down current possible tax audits and investigations. The justice department, however, says the addendum is simply a customary waiver used in legal settlements.

In January, Trump and his two eldest sons sued the IRS [Internal Revenue Service] for $10bn over leaks of their business and personal tax returns. It was the first time a president had sued the US government.

On Monday, the justice department announced the suit was settled and the government had agreed to create an almost $1.8bn (£1.3bn) fund to compensate people who believe it unfairly investigated them. It has already inspired one lawsuit, as well as resistance from within Trump’s own Republican party.