IRS Lawyer Sells Hot Dogs at Stand During Government Shutdown

A federal government shutdown has left hundreds of thousands of workers without pay. Many are now seeking alternative incomes to make ends meet. Isaac Stein, an attorney for the Internal Revenue Service, is one of them. He has started an unusual second job.

Stein is now operating a hot dog cart in Washington, D.C. He calls his business “Shysters Dogs.” The lawyer was furloughed shortly after securing his permits.

From Tax Code to Street Food

Stein serves about 50 hot dogs a day from his cart. He wears a full business suit and tie while working. His cart’s tagline is “The only honest ripoff in DC.”

According to Reuters, Stein said this venture fulfills a childhood dream. He recalled being more interested in selling snacks than playing sports in school. He finds joy in chatting with customers and meeting locals.

A Menu with a Sense of Humor

The lawyer’s menu reflects his witty personality. It features items like the “Correct Hot Dog.” There is also a “Hot Dog with the Wrong Toppings” for an extra dollar.

He joked with Reuters about incentivizing proper condiments. “I’m trying to incentivise people to do what I think is right — mustard and sauerkraut,” he stated. He charges a penalty for ketchup or mayo.

Overcoming Regulatory Hurdles

Setting up the stand was a significant challenge. Stein navigated a complex web of city regulations himself. He told Reuters he read over 150 pages of rules.

The investment for the cart reached five figures. Stein hopes to convey an idea of “genteel old Washington.” He finds it subversive to wear a full suit while selling street food. He plans to return to his IRS job when the shutdown ends.

The ongoing government shutdown continues to impact the lives of federal employees across the nation. Stories like Isaac Stein’s hot dog stand highlight the resilience and creativity of workers facing financial uncertainty.

Thought you’d like to know-

Who is Isaac Stein?

Isaac Stein is an attorney for the Internal Revenue Service. He was furloughed without pay during the recent government shutdown. He now operates a hot dog cart called “Shysters Dogs” in Washington, D.C.

Why is he selling hot dogs?

Stein is selling hot dogs to generate income during the government shutdown. His IRS salary was put on hold. He also stated it was a childhood dream to run a food cart.

What is the name of his hot dog stand?

His stand is called “Shysters Dogs.” The tagline is “The only honest ripoff in DC.” The name is a playful reference to dishonest lawyers.

How many federal workers are furloughed?

According to Federal News Network, nearly 700,000 federal workers were placed on furlough. Many have been notified they will not receive their next scheduled paycheck.

Will he return to the IRS?

Yes, Isaac Stein has confirmed he will gladly return to his work at the IRS. His return is contingent on the government shutdown ending.