Case: Center for Taxpayer Rights v. Internal Revenue Service

1:25-cv-00457 | U.S. District Court for the District of District of Columbia

Filed Date: Feb. 17, 2025

Case Ongoing

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

This case challenges the Trump administration’s effort to grant the White House’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) access to highly sensitive taxpayer data stored by the IRS. On February 17, 2025, the Center for Taxpayer Rights, Main Street Alliance, National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), and Communications Workers of America (CWA) filed this lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia against the IRS, the Department of the Treasury, DOGE, and associated …

This case challenges the Trump administration’s effort to grant the White House’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) access to highly sensitive taxpayer data stored by the IRS. On February 17, 2025, the Center for Taxpayer Rights, Main Street Alliance, National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), and Communications Workers of America (CWA) filed this lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia against the IRS, the Department of the Treasury, DOGE, and associated officials. 

The case was assigned to Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly.

The plaintiffs alleged that DOGE staff—reportedly led by Elon Musk and acting at the direction of the White House—were seeking or had obtained access to IRS systems containing confidential taxpayer return information, including the Integrated Data Retrieval System (IDRS). They asserted that such access violated the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. §§ 6103, 7213A), the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. § 552a), the Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA), and the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). They also alleged that DOGE was acting ultra vires, without any legal authority to access IRS systems or direct agency operations.

The complaint emphasized the extraordinary sensitivity of IRS databases, including banking information, audit flags, dependent claims, and taxpayer ID numbers, as well as concerns that DOGE operatives might use the data to target political opponents or vulnerable groups such as EITC recipients. Plaintiffs sought declaratory and injunctive relief, including an order halting DOGE’s access, compelling deletion of any improperly obtained data, and revoking access permissions.

On April 25, 2025, the federal government moved to dismiss the case under Rules 12(b)(1) and 12(b)(6), arguing that plaintiffs lacked standing, failed to plead any final agency action reviewable under the APA, and could not use the APA to assert claims foreclosed by the Internal Revenue Code or Privacy Act. The government also asserted that FISMA-based claims were nonjusticiable and that the ultra vires claim fell outside the narrow bounds of permissible judicial review.

The parties jointly proposed, and the court entered, a briefing schedule for the motion to dismiss. That schedule was later extended by one week to accommodate defense counsel. The motion to dismiss was filed on July 10, 2025. Plaintiffs’ opposition is due August 1, and defendants’ reply is due August 11.

As of July 2025, the motion to dismiss remains pending and the case is ongoing.

Summary Authors

Oliver Farnum (2/19/2025)

Brian Chen (7/15/2025)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69646607/parties/center-for-taxpayer-rights-v-internal-revenue-service/


Judge(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff

Gitomer, Madeline (District of Columbia)

Hickman, Johanna M. (District of Columbia)

Jones, Karianne Melissa (District of Columbia)

Attorney for Defendant

Humphreys, Bradley P. (District of Columbia)

Expert/Monitor/Master/Other

Bahnsen, Nicholas Scott (District of Columbia)

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Documents in the Clearinghouse

Document
1

1:25-cv-00457

Plaintiffs' Complaint For Declaratory and Injunctive Relief

Feb. 17, 2025

Feb. 17, 2025

Complaint
26

1:25-cv-00457

Defendants' Motion to Dismiss Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint

July 10, 2025

July 10, 2025

Pleading / Motion / Brief
27

1:25-cv-00457

Memorandum in Opposition to Defendants' Motion to Dismiss

Aug. 1, 2025

Aug. 1, 2025

Pleading / Motion / Brief

Resources

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69646607/center-for-taxpayer-rights-v-internal-revenue-service/

Last updated Oct. 15, 2025, 3:11 a.m.

ECF Number Description Date Link Date / Link
1

COMPLAINT against SCOTT BESSENT, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DOUGLAS O'DONNELL, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DOGE SERVICE, U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION with Jury Demand ( Filing fee $ 405 receipt number ADCDC-11484198) filed by MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA. (Attachments: # 1 Civil Cover Sheet, # 2 Civil Cover Sheet Cov Sheet Attachment, # 3 Summons, # 4 Summons, # 5 Summons, # 6 Summons, # 7 Summons, # 8 Summons, # 9 Summons, # 10 Summons)(McGrath, Daniel) (Attachment 1 replaced on 2/18/2025) (zmtm). (Entered: 02/17/2025)

1 Civil Cover Sheet

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2 Civil Cover Sheet Cov Sheet Attachment

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3 Summons

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4 Summons

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5 Summons

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6 Summons

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7 Summons

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8 Summons

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9 Summons

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10 Summons

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Feb. 17, 2025

Feb. 17, 2025

Clearinghouse
2

NOTICE OF RELATED CASE by COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE. Case related to Case No. 25-313. (McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 02/17/2025)

Feb. 17, 2025

Feb. 17, 2025

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10

ORDER ESTABLISHING PROCEDURES FOR CIVIL CASES ASSIGNED TO JUDGE COLLEEN KOLLAR-KOTELLY. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 02/18/2025. (lcckk1) (Entered: 02/18/2025)

Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

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3

SUMMONS (8) Issued Electronically as to All Defendants, U.S. Attorney and U.S. Attorney General (zmtm) (Additional attachment(s) added on 2/18/2025: # 1 Notice and Consent) (zmtm). Modified on 2/18/2025 to add docket number (zmtm). (Entered: 02/18/2025)

1 Notice and Consent

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Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

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4

NOTICE of Appearance by Daniel Alexander McGrath on behalf of COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO (McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 02/18/2025)

Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

PACER
5

NOTICE of Appearance by Robin F. Thurston on behalf of COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO (Thurston, Robin) (Entered: 02/18/2025)

Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

PACER
6

MOTION for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice :Attorney Name- Karianne M. Jones, Filing fee $ 100, receipt number ADCDC-11485947. Fee Status: Fee Paid. by COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration, # 2 Supplement Declaration, # 3 Certificate of Good Standing)(McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 02/18/2025)

Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

PACER
7

MOTION for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice :Attorney Name- Madeline H. Gitomer, Filing fee $ 100, receipt number ADCDC-11485966. Fee Status: Fee Paid. by COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration, # 2 Certificate of Good Standing)(McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 02/18/2025)

Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

PACER
8

MOTION for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice :Attorney Name- Skye L. Perryman, Filing fee $ 100, receipt number ADCDC-11485977. Fee Status: Fee Paid. by COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration, # 2 Certificate of Good Standing)(McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 02/18/2025)

Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

PACER
9

LCvR 26.1 CERTIFICATE OF DISCLOSURE of Corporate Affiliations and Financial Interests by COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO (McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 02/18/2025)

Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

PACER

Case Assigned to Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly. (zmtm)

Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

PACER

Case Assigned/Reassigned

Feb. 18, 2025

Feb. 18, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice AND Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

Feb. 19, 2025

Feb. 19, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

Feb. 19, 2025

Feb. 19, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: For good cause shown, the 6, 7, and 8 Motions for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice filed on behalf of Attorneys Karianne M. Jones, Madeline H. Gitomer, and Skye L. Perryman, are GRANTED, CONTINGENT ON Attorneys Jones, Gitomer, and Perryman filing declarations certifying their familiarity with the Local Rules of this Court on or before February 26, 2025. Because Attorney Jones is an active member of the District of Columbia Bar practicing on behalf of an organization with an office in this District and has not yet applied for admission to this Court's Bar, Attorney Jones's admission pro hac vice is also CONTINGENT on Attorney Jones submitting an application for admission to this Court's Bar pursuant to Local Rule of Civil Procedure 83.8 on or before February 26, 2025. Counsel shall promptly register for e-filing via PACER and file a notice of appearance pursuant to LCvR 83.6(a) Click for instructions. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 02/19/2025. (lcckk1)

Feb. 19, 2025

Feb. 19, 2025

PACER
11

RETURN OF SERVICE/AFFIDAVIT of Summons and Complaint Executed. SCOTT BESSENT served on 2/20/2025; INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE served on 2/20/2025; DOUGLAS O'DONNELL served on 2/20/2025; U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY served on 2/20/2025; U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE) served on 2/20/2025; U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION served on 2/19/2025, RETURN OF SERVICE/AFFIDAVIT of Summons and Complaint Executed as to the United States Attorney. Date of Service Upon United States Attorney on 2/20/2025. ( Answer due for ALL FEDERAL DEFENDANTS by 4/21/2025.), RETURN OF SERVICE/AFFIDAVIT of Summons and Complaint Executed on United States Attorney General. Date of Service Upon United States Attorney General 02/20/2025. (McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 02/24/2025)

Feb. 24, 2025

Feb. 24, 2025

PACER
12

NOTICE of Appearance by Madeline Gitomer on behalf of COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO (Attachments: # 1 Declaration)(Gitomer, Madeline) (Entered: 02/25/2025)

1 Declaration

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Feb. 25, 2025

Feb. 25, 2025

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13

NOTICE of Appearance by Skye Perryman on behalf of COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO (Attachments: # 1 Declaration)(Perryman, Skye) (Entered: 02/25/2025)

1 Declaration

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Feb. 25, 2025

Feb. 25, 2025

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14

NOTICE of Appearance by Karianne Melissa Jones on behalf of COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO (Attachments: # 1 Declaration, # 2 Certificate of Good Standing)(Jones, Karianne) (Entered: 02/25/2025)

1 Declaration

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2 Certificate of Good Standing

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Feb. 25, 2025

Feb. 25, 2025

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15

NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL OF APPEARANCE as to COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO. Attorney Karianne Melissa Jones terminated. (Jones, Karianne) (Entered: 03/26/2025)

March 26, 2025

March 26, 2025

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16

NOTICE of Appearance by Bradley P. Humphreys on behalf of All Defendants (Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 03/28/2025)

March 28, 2025

March 28, 2025

RECAP
17

Consent MOTION for Extension of Time to File Answer re 1 Complaint,, or Otherwise Respond by SCOTT BESSENT, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DOUGLAS O'DONNELL, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 04/16/2025)

April 16, 2025

April 16, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Extension of Time to Answer

April 17, 2025

April 17, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: The Defendants' 17 Consent Motion for Extension of Time is GRANTED. The Defendants shall file their Answer or other response to the Plaintiffs' 1 Complaint on or before April 25, 2025. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 04/17/2025. (lcckk1)

April 17, 2025

April 17, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines: The Defendants shall file their Answer or other response to the Plaintiffs' 1 Complaint on or before 4/25/2025. (dot)

April 17, 2025

April 17, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines

April 17, 2025

April 17, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines

April 18, 2025

April 18, 2025

PACER
18

MOTION to Dismiss by SCOTT BESSENT, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DOUGLAS O'DONNELL, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Text of Proposed Order)(Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 04/25/2025)

1 Memorandum in Support

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2 Text of Proposed Order

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April 25, 2025

April 25, 2025

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19

Consent MOTION for Extension of Time to Respond to Motion to Dismiss by CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 05/05/2025)

1 Text of Proposed Order

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May 5, 2025

May 5, 2025

RECAP

Set/Reset Deadlines AND Terminate Deadlines

May 5, 2025

May 5, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Extension of Time to

May 5, 2025

May 5, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: For good cause shown, the Plaintiffs' 19 Consent Motion for Extension of Time is GRANTED. The Plaintiffs shall file their response to the Defendants' 18 Motion to Dismiss on or before May 16, 2025. The Defendants shall file any reply on or before May 23, 2025. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 05/05/2025. (lcckk1)

May 5, 2025

May 5, 2025

PACER

Terminate Deadlines

May 5, 2025

May 5, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines: Response to Dispositive Motions due by 5/16/2025; Reply to Dispositive Motions due by 5/23/2025. (mhp)

May 5, 2025

May 5, 2025

PACER
20

AMENDED COMPLAINT against SCOTT BESSENT, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION, AMY GLEASON, ELON MUSK, STEVE DAVIS, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, CHARLES EZELL, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, MICHAEL FAULKENDER with Jury Demand filed by NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Summons, # 2 Summons, # 3 Summons, # 4 Summons, # 5 Summons, # 6 Summons, # 7 Summons, # 8 Summons)(McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 05/16/2025)

1 Summons

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2 Summons

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3 Summons

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4 Summons

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5 Summons

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6 Summons

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7 Summons

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8 Summons

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May 16, 2025

May 16, 2025

PACER
21

NOTICE of Appearance by Johanna M. Hickman on behalf of CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO (Hickman, Johanna) (Entered: 05/20/2025)

May 20, 2025

May 20, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion to Dismiss

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: Upon consideration of the Plaintiffs' 20 Amended Complaint, it is ORDERED that the Defendants' 18 Motion to Dismiss is DENIED WITHOUT PREJUDICE and the briefing schedule on that Motion is VACATED so that the Defendants may revise and refile their Motion or otherwise respond to the amended pleading. See Ellipso, Inc. v. Mann, 460 F. Supp. 2d 99, 103 (D.D.C. 2006) (RCL). The Defendants shall Answer or otherwise respond to the 20 Amended Complaint in accordance with Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 05/22/2025. (lcckk1)

May 22, 2025

May 22, 2025

PACER
22

SUMMONS (8) Issued Electronically as to STEVE DAVIS, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, CHARLES EZELL, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, AMY GLEASON, ELON MUSK, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM. (Attachment: # 1 Notice and Consent)(zjm) (Entered: 05/23/2025)

May 23, 2025

May 23, 2025

PACER
23

Joint MOTION for Briefing Schedule for Defendants' Motion to Dismiss Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint by SCOTT BESSENT, STEVE DAVIS, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, CHARLES EZELL, MICHAEL FAULKENDER, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, AMY GLEASON, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, ELON MUSK, DOUGLAS O'DONNELL, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 05/30/2025)

1 Text of Proposed Order

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May 30, 2025

May 30, 2025

PACER
24

ORDER granting 23 Motion for Briefing Schedule. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 5/30/2025. (lcckk3) (Entered: 05/30/2025)

May 30, 2025

May 30, 2025

RECAP

Set/Reset Deadlines/Hearings

May 30, 2025

May 30, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines/Hearings: Defendant's Motion to Dismiss due by 7/3/2025. Plaintiff's Response to Motion to Dismiss due by 7/25/2025. Defendant's Reply to Dispositive Motions due by 8/4/2025. (zakb)

May 30, 2025

May 30, 2025

PACER
25

Unopposed MOTION to Modify Briefing Schedule by SCOTT BESSENT, STEVE DAVIS, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, CHARLES EZELL, MICHAEL FAULKENDER, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, AMY GLEASON, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, ELON MUSK, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 06/30/2025)

June 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

RECAP

Order on Motion to Modify

July 2, 2025

July 2, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: For good cause shown, Defendants' 25 Unopposed Motion to Modify Briefing Schedule is GRANTED. Defendants shall file their motion to dismiss on or before July 10, 2025. Plaintiffs shall file their response to Defendants' motion to dismiss on or before August 1, 2025. Defendants shall file any reply in support of their motion to dismiss on or before August 11, 2025. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 07/02/2025. (lcckk1)

July 2, 2025

July 2, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines

July 2, 2025

July 2, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines: Defendants' Motion to Dismiss due by 7/10/2025. Response due by 8/1/2025. Reply due by 8/11/2025. (dot)

July 2, 2025

July 2, 2025

PACER
26

MOTION to Dismiss Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint by SCOTT BESSENT, STEVE DAVIS, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, CHARLES EZELL, MICHAEL FAULKENDER, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, AMY GLEASON, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, ELON MUSK, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Text of Proposed Order)(Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 07/10/2025)

1 Memorandum in Support

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2 Text of Proposed Order

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July 10, 2025

July 10, 2025

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27

Memorandum in opposition to re 26 MOTION to Dismiss Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint filed by CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration of Nina E. Olson)(McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 08/01/2025)

Aug. 1, 2025

Aug. 1, 2025

RECAP
28

Unopposed MOTION for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply as to 26 MOTION to Dismiss Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint by SCOTT BESSENT, STEVE DAVIS, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, CHARLES EZELL, MICHAEL FAULKENDER, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, AMY GLEASON, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, ELON MUSK, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 08/06/2025)

1 Text of Proposed Order

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Aug. 6, 2025

Aug. 6, 2025

RECAP

MINUTE ORDER granting 28 Motion for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply re 26 MOTION to Dismiss Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint. Reply due by 8/15/2025. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 8/11/2025. (lcckk3) Modified event title on 8/11/2025 (hmc).

Aug. 11, 2025

Aug. 11, 2025

PACER

Order on Motion for Extension of Time to File Response/Reply

Aug. 11, 2025

Aug. 11, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines: Reply due by 8/15/2025. (hmc)

Aug. 11, 2025

Aug. 11, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines

Aug. 11, 2025

Aug. 11, 2025

PACER
29

REPLY to opposition to motion re 26 Motion to Dismiss,, filed by SCOTT BESSENT, STEVE DAVIS, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, CHARLES EZELL, MICHAEL FAULKENDER, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, AMY GLEASON, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, ELON MUSK, DOUGLAS O'DONNELL, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 08/15/2025)

Aug. 15, 2025

Aug. 15, 2025

RECAP
30

MOTION for Preliminary Injunction (Stay Under 5 U.S.C. 705, 706, or in the alternative for Preliminary Injunction) by CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Text of Proposed Order, # 3 Exhibit 1, # 4 Exhibit 2, # 5 Exhibit 3, # 6 Exhibit 4, # 7 Exhibit 5, # 8 Exhibit 6 - Declaration of Nina E. Olson, # 9 Exhibit 7 - Declaration of Shawn Phetteplace, # 10 Exhibit 8 - Declaration of Jane Doe, # 11 Exhibit 9 - Declaration of Yvette Piacsek, # 12 Exhibit 10 - Declaration of John Doe, # 13 Exhibit 11 - Declaration of John Koskinen)(Hickman, Johanna) (Entered: 08/20/2025)

1 Memorandum in Support

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2 Text of Proposed Order

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3 Exhibit 1

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4 Exhibit 2

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5 Exhibit 3

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6 Exhibit 4

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7 Exhibit 5

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8 Exhibit 6 - Declaration of Nina E. Olson

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9 Exhibit 7 - Declaration of Shawn Phetteplace

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10 Exhibit 8 - Declaration of Jane Doe

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11 Exhibit 9 - Declaration of Yvette Piacsek

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12 Exhibit 10 - Declaration of John Doe

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13 Exhibit 11 - Declaration of John Koskinen

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Aug. 20, 2025

Aug. 20, 2025

RECAP

.Order

Aug. 20, 2025

Aug. 20, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: The Court is in receipt of the Plaintiffs' 30 Motion for Stay Under 5 U.S.C. § 705 or, in the Alternative, for a Preliminary Injunction. The Defendants shall respond to the Plaintiffs' 30 Motion on or before August 28, 2025. The Plaintiffs shall file any reply on or before September 3, 2025. The parties shall be prepared for a hearing on the Plaintiffs' Motion on either September 4 or September 5. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 08/20/2025. (lcckk1)

Aug. 20, 2025

Aug. 20, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines

Aug. 20, 2025

Aug. 20, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines: Defendants' Response to 30 due by 8/28/2025; Plaintiffs' Replies due by 9/3/2025. (dot)

Aug. 20, 2025

Aug. 20, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines

Aug. 21, 2025

Aug. 21, 2025

PACER
31

Memorandum in opposition to re 30 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction (Stay Under 5 U.S.C. 705, 706, or in the alternative for Preliminary Injunction) MOTION to Stay filed by SCOTT BESSENT, STEVE DAVIS, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, CHARLES EZELL, MICHAEL FAULKENDER, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, AMY GLEASON, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, ELON MUSK, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit A - Declaration of John J. Walker, # 2 Text of Proposed Order)(Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 08/28/2025)

1 Affidavit A - Declaration of John J. Walker

View on RECAP

2 Text of Proposed Order

View on RECAP

Aug. 28, 2025

Aug. 28, 2025

RECAP

MINUTE ORDER: Upon consideration of the Plaintiffs' 30 Motion for Stay Under 5 U.S.C. § 705 or, in the Alternative, for Preliminary Injunction, and the Defendants' 31 Opposition thereto, it is ORDERED that counsel shall appear for a hearing on the Plaintiffs' 30 Motion at 1:00 p.m. ET on September 5, 2025, in Courtroom 28-A. On or before September 3, 2025, the Court will issue a further order identifying specific legal and factual issues that counsel should be prepared to address at this hearing. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 08/29/2025. (lcckk1)

Aug. 29, 2025

Aug. 29, 2025

PACER

.Order

Aug. 29, 2025

Aug. 29, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Hearings: Motion Hearing set for 9/5/2025 at 1:00 PM in Courtroom 28A- In Person before Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly. (dot)

Aug. 29, 2025

Aug. 29, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Hearings

Aug. 29, 2025

Aug. 29, 2025

PACER
32

ORDER identifying specific legal and factual issues that counsel should be prepared to address at the hearing on Plaintiffs' 30 Motion on September 5, 2025. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 9/3/2025. (lcckk3) (Entered: 09/03/2025)

Sept. 3, 2025

Sept. 3, 2025

RECAP
33

MOTION for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice :Attorney Name- Andrew Weiner, Filing fee $ 100, receipt number ADCDC-11931098. Fee Status: Fee Paid. by Members of Congress as Amici Curiae. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit)(Bahnsen, Nicholas) (Entered: 09/03/2025)

1 Affidavit

View on PACER

Sept. 3, 2025

Sept. 3, 2025

PACER
34

REPLY to opposition to motion re 30 Motion for Preliminary Injunction,,,, Motion to Stay,,, filed by CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 12, # 2 Exhibit 13)(McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 09/03/2025)

Sept. 3, 2025

Sept. 3, 2025

RECAP

Order on Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

Sept. 3, 2025

Sept. 3, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: For good cause shown, the 33 Motion for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice filed on behalf of Attorney Andrew Weiner is GRANTED, CONTINGENT ON Attorney Weiner filing a declaration certifying his familiarity with the Local Rules of this Court on or before September 10, 2025. Because Attorney Weiner is an active member of the District of Columbia Bar practicing on behalf of an organization with an office in this District, Attorney Weiner's admission pro hac vice is also CONTINGENT ON him applying for admission to become a full member of this Court's Bar no later than October 3, 2025. Counsel shall promptly register for e-filing via PACER and file a notice of appearance pursuant to LCvR 83.6(a) Click for instructions. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 9/3/2025. (lcckk3)

Sept. 3, 2025

Sept. 3, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: The Court will provide access for the public to telephonically attend the hearing on Plaintiffs' 30 Motion for Stay Under 5 U.S.C. § 705 or, in the Alternative, for Preliminary Injunction that is set for September 5, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. ET. The hearing can be accessed by dialing the toll-free number: (833) 990-9400 (Meeting ID: 585620654). Attendees using the public access telephone line can listen to proceedings but will not be audible to other participants during the hearing. Attendees are also reminded of the general prohibition against photographing, recording, or rebroadcasting any court proceedings (including those held by telephone or videoconference). Violation of these prohibitions may result in sanctions, including removal of court-issued media credentials, restricted entry to future hearings, denial of entry to future hearings, or any other sanctions deemed necessary by the Court. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 9/4/2025. (lcckk3)

Sept. 4, 2025

Sept. 4, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Hearings

Sept. 4, 2025

Sept. 4, 2025

PACER

.Order

Sept. 4, 2025

Sept. 4, 2025

PACER
35

NOTICE of Appearance by Andrew Weiner on behalf of Members of Congress as Amici Curiae (Weiner, Andrew) (Entered: 09/05/2025)

Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

PACER
36

Unopposed MOTION for Leave to File Amicus Briefin support of Plaintiffs by Members of Congress as Amici Curiae. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Brief of Amici Curiae)(Weiner, Andrew) (Entered: 09/05/2025)

1 Exhibit Brief of Amici Curiae

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Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

RECAP
37

AMICUS BRIEF by MEMBERS OF CONGRESS AS AMICI CURIAE. (zjm) (Entered: 09/06/2025)

Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

RECAP

Order on Motion for Leave to File Amicus Brief

Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

PACER

.Order

Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

PACER

Order

Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: For good cause shown, the 36 Unopposed Motion for Leave to File Brief of Amici Curiae Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Leadership in Support of Plaintiffs' 30 Motion for Stay or Preliminary Injunction is GRANTED. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 09/05/2025. (lcckk1)

Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

PACER

Motion Hearing

Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: The Court held a hearing on Plaintiffs' 30 Motion for a Preliminary Injunction on September 5, 2025. The Court took the Motion under advisement and expresses no view at this time on its ultimate disposition. At the hearing, the parties represented that they would provide the Court with certain information. Based on those representations and the surrounding discussion, the Court ORDERS the Plaintiffs to provide the Court with details of the effect that the IRS's actions may have on federal funding received by the Center for Taxpayer Rights, including details regarding any federal reporting requirements associated with the funding. The Court further ORDERS the Defendants to provide (i) the name and title of the individual at the IRS who received ICE's June 27 data request, (ii) the name and title of the individual whom ICE identified as the "officer[] or employee[]... personally and directly engaged in" the relevant criminal investigations or proceedings at issue in its June 27 request to the IRS, and (iii) the name and title of the individual who received the IRS's August 7 disclosure on behalf of ICE. Counsel for Defendants committed to notifying the Court within 24 hours if, while the Plaintiffs' motion is pending, the IRS either receives another request for information from DHS/ICE or makes plans to share additional information with DHS/ICE. Accordingly, Defendants are ORDERED to make such notification if the obligation arises. Finally, the Court discussed the possibility of ordering the administrative record. Counsel for Defendants requested 45 days to produce the record if the Court make such order. If the Court requires the administrative record to resolve Plaintiffs' Motion, it will order for it at a future date. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 9/5/2025. (lcckk3)

Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

PACER

Minute Entry for proceedings held before Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly: Motion Hearing held on 9/5/2025 re 30 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction (Stay Under 5 U.S.C. 705, 706, or in the alternative for Preliminary Injunction) MOTION to Stay filed by NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS. Motion heard and taken under advisement. (Court Reporter Sonja Reeves.) (dot)

Sept. 5, 2025

Sept. 5, 2025

PACER

Motion Hearing

Sept. 8, 2025

Sept. 8, 2025

PACER
38

TRANSCRIPT OF MOTION HEARING before Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly held on September 5, 2025; Page Numbers: 1-133. Date of Issuance: September 9, 2025. Court Reporter/Transcriber Sonja L. Reeves, RDR, CRR, Telephone number (202) 354-3246, Transcripts may be ordered by submitting the Transcript Order FormFor the first 90 days after this filing date, the transcript may be viewed at the courthouse at a public terminal or purchased from the court reporter referenced above. After 90 days, the transcript may be accessed via PACER. Other transcript formats, (multi-page, condensed, CD or ASCII) may be purchased from the court reporter.NOTICE RE REDACTION OF TRANSCRIPTS: The parties have twenty-one days to file with the court and the court reporter any request to redact personal identifiers from this transcript. If no such requests are filed, the transcript will be made available to the public via PACER without redaction after 90 days. The policy, which includes the five personal identifiers specifically covered, is located on our website at www.dcd.uscourts.gov. Redaction Request due 9/30/2025. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 10/10/2025. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 12/8/2025.(Reeves, Sonja) (Entered: 09/09/2025)

Sept. 9, 2025

Sept. 9, 2025

PACER

.Order

Sept. 9, 2025

Sept. 9, 2025

PACER

Order

Sept. 9, 2025

Sept. 9, 2025

PACER

MINUTE ORDER: The Court held a hearing on Plaintiffs' 30 Motion for Preliminary Injunction on September 5, 2025. At the hearing, the Court informed the parties that it may require the administrative record to resolve Plaintiffs' Motion. Counsel for the Defendants requested 45 days to produce the administrative record in the event the Court ordered such production.The Court has determined that it requires the administrative record to resolve Plaintiffs' Motion. As the Court will more fully explain in its written ruling on Plaintiffs' Motion, Plaintiffs have shown a substantial likelihood that at least one Plaintiff, the Center for Taxpayer Rights, has Article III standing based on the harms to its core activities that are described in paragraphs 40 through 54 of the [30-8] Declaration of Nina E. Olson. Furthermore, Plaintiffs have shown a substantial likelihood that the IRS has taken final agency action by adopting and implementing a policy of disclosing the addresses of tens of thousands of taxpayers to Immigration and Customs Enforcement ("ICE") based on a representation from ICE that a single ICE employee is (or a small number of ICE employees are) "personally and directly engaged" in investigating each of those taxpayers for committing a criminal offense under 8 U.S.C. § 1253(a)(1). Because resolving the balance of Plaintiffs' Motion will require the Court to assess Plaintiffs' likelihood of success on the merits of their arbitrary-and-capricious claims under the Administrative Procedure Act, binding precedent compels the Court to call for the administrative record. See Am. Bioscience, Inc. v. Thompson, 243 F.3d 579, 582 (D.C. Cir. 2001) (directing that "before assessing... probability of success on the merits" in a case challenging agency action as arbitrary and capricious, district courts should "require[] the [agency] to file the administrative record" and "determine[] the grounds on which" the agency acted).Accordingly, it is hereby ORDERED that Defendants shall file the administrative record underlying the decisions challenged in this case on or before October 24, 2025. If Defendants take the position that any document that would otherwise be part of the administrative record is subject to a privilege other than the deliberative process privilege, Defendants shall promptly file a motion for exemption from disclosure, which the Court shall resolve in due course. See In re United States, 583 U.S. at 32 ("[T]he District Court may not compel the Government to disclose any document that the Government believes is privileged without first providing the Government with the opportunity to argue the issue."). Plaintiffs shall file any objections to Defendants' designation of the administrative record, including objections that Defendants omitted information that should have been included, on or before October 27, 2025. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 9/9/2025. (lcckk3)

Sept. 9, 2025

Sept. 9, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines

Sept. 9, 2025

Sept. 9, 2025

PACER

Set/Reset Deadlines: Defendants' Administrative Record due by 10/24/2025. Plaintiffs' Objections due by 10/27/2025. (dot)

Sept. 9, 2025

Sept. 9, 2025

PACER
39

RESPONSE TO ORDER OF THE COURT re Order,,,,,,, to Provide Additional Information filed by CENTER FOR TAXPAYER RIGHTS, COMMUNICATIONS WORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO, MAIN STREET ALLIANCE, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, IAM AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Declaration)(McGrath, Daniel) (Entered: 09/17/2025)

1 Declaration

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Sept. 17, 2025

Sept. 17, 2025

RECAP
40

RESPONSE TO ORDER OF THE COURT re Order,,,,,,, Requiring Defendants to Provide Additional Information filed by SCOTT BESSENT, STEVE DAVIS, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, CHARLES EZELL, MICHAEL FAULKENDER, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, AMY GLEASON, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, ELON MUSK, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit, # 2 Exhibit)(Humphreys, Bradley) (Entered: 09/18/2025)

1 Exhibit

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2 Exhibit

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Sept. 18, 2025

Sept. 18, 2025

RECAP
41

NOTICE OF SUBSTITUTION OF COUNSEL by John Stephen Tagert on behalf of All Defendants Substituting for attorney Bradley P. Humphreys (Tagert, John) (Entered: 09/29/2025)

Sept. 29, 2025

Sept. 29, 2025

PACER
42

MOTION to Stay re Order,,,,,,,,,,,, by SCOTT BESSENT, STEVE DAVIS, STEPHEN EHIKIAN, CHARLES EZELL, MICHAEL FAULKENDER, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, AMY GLEASON, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, ELON MUSK, DOUGLAS O'DONNELL, OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY DOGE TEAM, U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE (U.S. DOGE SERVICE), U.S. DOGE SERVICE TEMPORARY ORGANIZATION. (Attachments: # 1 Text of Proposed Order)(Tagert, John) (Entered: 10/01/2025)

Oct. 1, 2025

Oct. 1, 2025

RECAP
43

ORDER denying 42 Motion to Stay. Signed by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on 10/1/2025. (lcckk3) (Entered: 10/01/2025)

Oct. 1, 2025

Oct. 1, 2025

RECAP
44

Notice of Appearance

Oct. 10, 2025

Oct. 10, 2025

RECAP

Case Details

State / Territory: District of Columbia

Case Type(s):

Presidential/Gubernatorial Authority

Special Collection(s):

Trump Administration 2.0: Challenges to the Government

Key Dates

Filing Date: Feb. 17, 2025

Case Ongoing: Yes

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

Non-profits and unions of federal & private communication workers.

Attorney Organizations:

Democracy Forward

Public Interest Lawyer: Yes

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: No

Class Action Outcome: Not sought

Defendants

Internal Revenue Service (Washington, D.C., District of Columbia), Federal

Department of the Treasury (Washington, D.C., District of Columbia), Federal

U.S. Digital Service (DOGE Service) (Washington, D.C., District of Columbia), Federal

U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization (Washington, D.C., District of Columbia), Federal

Case Details

Causes of Action:

Administrative Procedure Act, 5 U.S.C. §§ 551 et seq.

FOIA (Freedom of Information Act), 5 U.S.C. § 552

Available Documents:

Trial Court Docket

Complaint (any)

Outcome

Prevailing Party: None Yet / None

Nature of Relief:

None yet

Source of Relief:

None yet

Issues

Presidential/Gubernatorial Authority:

Access to information systems

DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency)