| Abstract |
This is the SBA's Semiannual Report on the Office of Inspector General's (OIG) activities from April 1, 2006, to September 30, 2006. As an independent, objective reviewer of SBAs operations and programs, the OIG seeks to target potential financial vulnerabilities and fraud, promote effective program management, ensure complete and accurate financial reporting, and improve information security. During this reporting period, the Office issued 15 reports with recommendations for improving Agency operations, reducing fraud and unnecessary losses, and recovering funds. OIG investigations led to 32 indictments and 19 convictions of subjects who defrauded the Federal Government. Also, the OIG collectively reviewed 83 legislative, regulatory, policy, procedural, and other proposals concerning the SBA and Government-wide programs. With a staff of about 100, the OIG continues to produce sizeable savings and important program improvements. |