DOT Has Weak Suspension, Debarment Policy for ARRA

Washington, May 22 – To reduce risks stemming from awarding grants and contracts quickly under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Department of Transportation officials have been advised to revise their debarment and suspension policy and assign a specific office to monitor implementation and compliance with the policy.

The DOT Office of Inspector General found that the agency’s policies and implementation of its suspension and debarment program are inefficient, leaving the agency vulnerable to doing business with irresponsible businesses and individuals. “Our ongoing work on DOT’s suspension and debarment program identifies vulnerabilities that increase the risk that the department’s Recovery Act funds will not be spent effectively,” the OIG said. “The time frames and significant funds awarded under the Recovery Act heighten the risk.