The IRS has proposed a set of rules first published in the Dec. 8 Federal Register that includes a rule that would allow accountants and tax-preparers to sell information from individual returns to marketers and data brokers. The proposed rules, which would become effective 30 days after a final version is published, would require a tax preparer to obtain written consent before selling tax information. Critics express concern over what many consider a dangerous breach in personal and financial privacy. They say that the requirement for a signed consent would not be effective protection as many taxpayers will simply sign documents given to them by the tax-preparer. Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., also criticized the proposal, warning that information would be vulnerable to identity theft and other risks once it was in the hands of third parties. The proposed rule may be viewed at the following website: http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/01jan20051800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2005/E5-7018.htm Ray