Tax-return measure aimed at IRS oversight

CNN reports on the tax provision inserted into the FY2005 omnibus Appropriations bill on the House side. The focus is on Rep. Ernest Istook (R-OK) who in turn is saying the IRS was responsible for the language.

Here's the language of the provision in question:

"Hereinafter, notwithstanding any other provision of law governing the disclosure of income tax returns or return information, upon written request of the Chairman of the House or Senate Committee on Appropriations, the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service shall allow agents designated by such Chairman access to Internal Revenue Service facilities and any tax returns or return information contained therein."