Labor Board: IRS Can Require Agents to Have Accounting Training

In a recent decision (61 FLRA No. 119, 7/13/06), the Federal Labor Relations Authority reversed an arbitrator's decision and ruled that the IRS could require its revenue agents to have 30 hours of college credits (rather than 24) in five areas of accounting:  principles of accounting, intermediate accounting, cost accounting, advanced accounting, and auditing.

The National Treasury Employees Union complains that the new standards block experienced employees from competing for new positions.  The IRS contends that taxpayers are entitled to audits of their tax returns by agents with adequate accounting training.  See today's Washington Post for coverage of the decision.