Oversight of Small Agencies

Vigorous oversight by an independent inspector general is one of the federal government’s most important tools to prevent and detect waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars.  The purpose of the hearing was to review the processes and mechanisms by which small agencies and other federal entities without statutory inspectors general receive oversight.  The hearing examined the process by which small agencies contract with independent inspectors general for services.  The hearing also reviewed the unique challenges faced by smaller inspector general offices and best practices for efficient and comprehensive oversight of smaller agencies.  The hearing also explored the role of the Council of Inspectors General for Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE) in ensuring that small agencies have adequate oversight.  Finally, the hearing examined potential legislative actions to improve the oversight of small agencies.