STEPHEN OHLEMACHER, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — A government watchdog says the IRS has taken significant steps to stop agents from targeting political groups based on their names and policy positions.

The agency’s inspector general says the IRS is doing a better job processing applications for tax-exempt status. In a report issued Thursday, he says the IRS has eliminated intrusive, unnecessary questions, and is processing applications faster.

The report is a follow-up to a 2013 audit that said agents had inappropriately singled out tea party and other conservative groups for extra scrutiny when they applied for tax-exempt status during the 2010 and 2012 elections.

The 2013 audit blamed poor management. It ignited a firestorm that led to numerous investigations and the replacement of most of the agency’s top management.