LIBERTY TWP.

The Liberty Township Tea Party is in a state of limbo.

It was one of dozens of organizations around the country that was singled out by the Internal Revenue Service because of its name. The conservative political group applied for tax-exempt status with the IRS in May of 2010, and after more than three years, its application hasnt been approved or denied.

Im shocked, Im disappointed and angry, said Susan McLaughlin, a member of the Liberty Township Tea Party. Pissed off is the other word out there because it shouldnt happen this way in America.

McLaughlin was one of several Tea Party members from around the United States who flew to Washington D.C. on May 22 to speak out about the scandal that is engulfing the IRS. Agency officials came under fire after they admitted to targeting some conservative groups.

Acting IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel testified before the House Appropriations Committee subcommittee on financial services and general government on IRS operations funding on June 3. According to his written testimony, he said, Unfortunately that trust has been broken as a result of the unacceptable conduct uncovered in the recent report by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.

Werfel promised taxpayers he will restore trust.

In my first few days at the IRS, I have initiated a comprehensive review of the agency and have taken immediate actions to address the significant and alarming problems identified in the Inspector Generals report regarding the 501c(4) application process, he said.

The Liberty Township Tea Party, formed in the summer of 2009, endured closer scrutiny when it applied and was required to furnish unnecessary information on its application because it had Tea Party in its name, McLaughlin said. Members coveted a 501c(3) status because that meant they could have a checkbook so they could have a bank account and they also wanted liability insurance so they can operate like a non-profit business.

It brings a level of professionalism to your operation, McLaughlin said. Your members and the people who contribute when you pass the hat to put the money in know that theres a CPA thats accounting for the money and not going to anybodys pocket and not going to anybodys checking account. And then that money is used to operate and rent the auditorium, pay for things that we do.

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Liberty Township Tea Party remains in limbo