Government Audit and Accountability of Federally Funded State-Administered Programs Act

Jun 8, 2026
Jun 8, 2026

Summary

Requires the Comptroller General to create and share a list of state-run programs that are at high risk of wasting or misusing federal money.

What problem does this solve?

Federal money given to states is sometimes wasted or used improperly, and it's hard to track which programs are the most vulnerable. This bill creates a public 'High Risk List' to identify these problem areas, share best practices, and suggest fixes to Congress, making it easier to protect taxpayer money.

What does this bill do?

Creates a 'High Risk List' for state-run programs
Requires the Comptroller General to create and periodically update a list of state and local government programs that have the highest risk of misusing federal funds.
Specifies content for the 'High Risk List'
The list must identify risky program areas, assess best practices to reduce waste, list available federal tools for help, and include recommendations for Congress.
Limits information sources for the list
The Comptroller General must primarily use existing public information, like federal and state audits and inspector general reports, to create the list.
Restricts new audit powers
Prohibits the Comptroller General from forcing states or local governments to provide information or from conducting new, independent audits of their programs for this list.

Who does this affect?

  • State and local governments
  • Federal agencies

What is the real world impact?

Increases transparency of federal spending
Creates a public list to show where federal money given to states is most at risk of being wasted or misused. This helps Congress and the public see which programs need more oversight and improvement.
Could increase federal control over states
States might view the 'High Risk List' as federal overreach. Being placed on the list could lead to unwanted federal attention, political pressure, or even attempts to cut funding for certain state-run programs.

When does this start?

The first 'High Risk List' must be created within two years after this bill becomes law and updated from time to time.