Semiannual Report to the Congress: April 1, 2019 – September 30, 2019

The Department and its components have worked with us to correct hundreds of issues and improve the economy and efficiency of programs and operations. Based on the Department's actions this period, we closed 146 recommendations issued in this and prior periods. Our work this reporting period resulted in improved overall effectiveness and a more secure homeland as well as improved management and oversight of programs and operations to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. The audits, inspections, and investigations we conducted during this reporting period should continue to help improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Department and its domestic and international missions to continue to protect the homeland. As examples, we reviewed the treatment and care of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainees at detention facilities, as well as ensured U.S. Customs and Border Protection provides guidance, knowledge, and tools to protect personnel when they come in contact with fentanyl and other opioids during search and seizures. Our work should also improve the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) review and obligation of Public Assistance grant funds and better align FEMA's information technology resources with agency and mission priorities. This year marks the 41 st anniversary of the Inspector General Act of 1978 and the creation of the original 12 Offices of Inspector General. Our office was created in 2003. Every six months we provide the Congress with a report detailing our independent oversight of the Department. In the years to come, we look forward to continuing our efforts to provide independent and effective oversight of the Department and working with the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency on important issues that cut across our Government.