Office of Inspector General Semiannual Report to Congress April 1, 2018 - September 30, 2018

During the semiannual reporting period, we continued our efforts to increase the productivity and value of OIG work through strategic planning and partnering efforts with NEA leadership and staff. We received and addressed 18 hotline complaints, primarily enabling us to help citizens avoid scams by individuals fraudulently representing themselves as NEA employees. Furthermore, we issued audit reports with $777,351 in questioned cost and 23 recommendations to improve awards management. Through our audit follow-up process, we continuously collaborate with NEA managers to clear open recommendations to improve stewardship of NEA funds by awardees. Finally, as required by the Consolidated Reports Act of 2000 and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-136, Financial Reporting Requirements, we worked with NEA officials to prepare a list of management challenges that NEA faces. The challenge areas include financial management, human capital, information technology, administrative services, and awardee accountability. A summary of the challenges and the continuous improvement and plans the NEA has made to address the challenges are included in this report.