The phrase "taxpayer billions" refers to a very large amount of money, often in billions of dollars, that is paid or spent by taxpayers. It highlights the significant financial impact on the public as a whole. Full definition
A second time, in 1979, was a back - office glitch that ended up costing taxpayers billions of dollars. (politics.stackexchange.com)
Our prisons are crowded, costing taxpayers billions of dollars. (bookbrowse.com)
Nearly doubling the state's investment into the public pension system this year will reduce the fund's long - term debt and save taxpayers billions in the long run. (teacherpensions.org)