The Inspector General Act

The Inspector General Act, enacted in 1978, establishes independent offices within federal agencies to detect and prevent fraud, waste, abuse, and misconduct. Inspectors General (IGs) conduct audits, investigations, and evaluations to promote transparency and accountability. They operate independently from agency management, reporting their findings directly to Congress and agency heads, ensuring unbiased oversight. The Act aims to enhance efficiency and integrity in government operations by providing a dedicated, authoritative voice for oversight and identifying issues that need corrective action.