Senate passes IG reform bill
Measure would change the job of inspectors general by giving them more independence.
The Senate has unanimously approved the Inspector General Reform Act, which would increase the independence of inspectors general while making them more accountable.
The bill approved April 23 would require that each IG be appointed based on integrity and abilities such as accounting or auditing, but not on political affiliation. It would boost the IGs' salaries and deny them a cash bonus. The bill also would require an administration to notify Congress 30 days before removing or transferring an IG.
The legislation also would establish the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency. The council would address issues that affect more than a single government agency and also would permit the council to investigate allegations against IGs.
The bill "will strengthen the role of inspectors general as an independent investigative force, making sure that taxpayers’ dollars are spent efficiently and effectively while also guaranteeing that IGs themselves be held accountable,” said Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.), chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.
Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), who introduced the legislation, said it will help government watchdogs in rooting out waste.
The House earlier passed similar legislation by 404 to 11.
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