Findings Citing § 200.214

Criteria or specific requirement: 2 CFR 200.214 Suspension and Debarment restricts awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. 2 CFR 180.300 states that an entity may determine suspension and debarment status by: (a) Checking SAM (System for Award Management) Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person 2 CFR 200.303 requires that non-federal entities receiving federal awards establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should comply with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework,” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Condition: Kansas Department of Health and Environment (Department) was unable to provide supporting documentation that it had performed suspension and debarment verification procedures before the start of procurement contracts. Questioned costs: None. Context: Sixty transactions were selected for testing which included twenty-five contracts and thirty-five subawards. For twenty-five of twenty-five contracts (100%), the Department was unable to provide documentation supporting when it had verified the contractors’ suspension and debarment status. The Department provided auditors with documentation that the contractors were not suspended or debarred, however, auditors were not able to verify that the status was documented prior to the start of the contracts. No exceptions were noted for the thirty-five subawards tested. Cause: The Department’s procedures and internal controls are not sufficient to ensure that it verifies and properly documents contractors’ suspension and debarment status prior to the execution of contracts. Effect: Failure to perform suspension and debarment verification procedures before the procurement of good or services could result in the payment of federal funds to contractors that are ineligible to participate in federal assistance programs. Repeat Finding: Yes, Finding 2024 - 007 Recommendation: We recommend that the Department enhances its procedures and internal controls to ensure that it verifies and maintains documentation of its contractors’ suspension and debarment status prior to the execution of all contracts. Verification can be performed by either checking SAM exclusions and maintaining documentation when the verification occurred, collecting a signed certification from the contractor prior to contract execution, or adding a clause or condition to the contract. We further recommend that documentation is readily available for audit. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.

FINDING 2025-004 Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Programs: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program Assistance Listings Numbers: 10.553, 10.555 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY2024, FY2025 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Findings: Significant Deficiency, Other Matters Condition and Context Suspension & Debarment Prior to entering into subawards and covered transactions with federal award funds, recipients are required to verify that such contractors and subrecipients are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded. "Covered transactions" include, but are not limited to, contracts for goods or services awarded under a nonprocurement transaction (i.e., grant agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000. Verification is to be done by checking the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS), collecting a certification from that person, or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 19 NORTHWESTERN SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) The School Corporation had not properly implemented a system of internal controls, which would include appropriate segregation of duties, that would likely be effective in preventing, or detecting and correcting, noncompliance. During the audit period, covered transactions in the amount of $63,597 were entered into with one vendor. The School Corporation had not checked the EPLS to verify the vendor was neither suspended nor debarred. The lack of internal controls and noncompliance were systemic throughout the audit period. Procurement During both the 2023-2024 and the 2024-2025 fiscal years, the School Corporation made payments to one vendor tested for micro-purchases for E-Funds via wire transactions that were automatically debited from their account without review prior to payment. Additionally, these transactions were not included within the Allowance of Claims reports presented to and approved by the School Board. The lack of internal controls is isolated to these specific E-Fund transactions with this vendor. Criteria 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." 2 CFR 200.214 states: "Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities." INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS 20 NORTHWESTERN SCHOOL CORPORATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS (Continued) Cause Management had not implemented a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. Embedded within a properly designed and implemented internal control system should be internal controls consisting of policies and procedures. Policies reflect the School Corporation's management statements of what should be done to effect internal controls, and procedures should consist of actions that would implement these policies. Effect Without designing and implementing an effective internal control system, material noncompliance was able to go undetected. Noncompliance with the grant agreement and the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement could result in the loss of federal funds to the School Corporation. Questioned Costs There were no questioned costs identified. Recommendation We recommended that management of the School Corporation establish a proper system of internal controls, including policies and procedures that would provide segregation of duties to ensure appropriate reviews, approvals, and oversight are taking place. Views of Responsible Officials For the views of responsible officials, refer to the Corrective Action Plan that is part of this report.

2025-006 U.S. Department of Treasury, Assistance Listing #21.027, Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLRF) Program for the period of July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025 Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR part 180 and 2 CFR §200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from entering into contracts or making subawards to parties that are suspended or debarred from participation in federal programs. Entities must verify vendor eligibility through the System of Awards Management (SAM.gov), obtain a vendor certification documenting compliance, or add a clause or condition in the contract for that vendor. Condition: Of the five vendors tested, three did not have documented evidence the City performed the required suspension and debarment verification. Cause: The City uses SLRF funds to fill budget gaps caused by the pandemic’s economic fallout. The City did not procure all contracts with the expectation they would be paid for with federal funds. Therefore, suspension and debarment procedures were not verified in all cases. Effect: Without proper verification, there is an increased risk that federal funds could be expended on vendors who are suspended or debarred, which may result in noncompliance with federal regulations and potential repayment of funds. Recommendation: We recommend the City review their existing contracts to ensure documentation of suspension and debarment compliance has been obtained for all vendors paid with SLRF grants. Questioned Costs: None.

Finding 2025-006 - Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Federal Program: COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number (ALN): 21.027 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of the Treasury Pass-Through Grantor: Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investments (OSLI) Grant Year: 2021 Federal Program: Clean Water State Revolving Fund Assistance Listing Number (ALN): 66.458 Federal Agency: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Pass-Through Grantor: Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investments (OSLI) Grant Year: 2024 Criteria Government-wide requirements for nonprocurement suspension and debarment are contained in 2 CFR Part 180 and 2 CFR 200.214. Non-Federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards to parties that are suspended or debarred. Prior to entering into covered transactions expected to equal or exceed $25,000, the non-Federal entity must verify that the vendor is not suspended or debarred. Verification may be accomplished by checking the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) or through other acceptable methods as outlined in federal regulations. Condition The City did not perform or document verification procedures to ensure that contractors used in the program were not suspended or debarred prior to entering into covered transactions. Independently we reviewed that the contractors were not suspended or debarred. Cause: The City does not have a control system in place to ensure that the required suspension and debarment is verified and documented. Effect or Potential Effect Failure to verify that contractors were not suspended or debarred resulted in noncompliance with federal procurement requirements. As a result, there is an increased risk that federal funds could be paid to ineligible contractors. If contractors used in the program had been suspended or debarred, the City could be required to repay the granting agency for the related expenditures. Questioned Costs None Context For the COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds grant, of the 16 covered transactions tested, the City did not maintain formal documentation for any of the 16 transactions to demonstrate that the vendors were not suspended or debarred. For the Clean Water State Revolving Fund grant, of the 23 covered transactions tested, the City did not maintain formal documentation for 9 transactions to demonstrate that the vendors were not suspended or debarred. Acceptable documentation may include a certification from the vendor, a suspension and debarment clause included in the contract, or evidence of a SAM.gov search performed and retained in the procurement file. Identification as a repeat finding This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation We recommend the City strengthen its procurement procedures to ensure suspension and debarment verification is performed and documented prior to entering into covered transactions funded with federal awards. Verification may be accomplished by checking System for Award Management (SAM.gov), obtaining vendor certification, or including a suspension and debarment certification in the contract. Views of Responsible Officials Management concurs with the finding. See Corrective Action Plan.

Federal program – Child Nutrition Cluster – Assistance Listing Numbers 10.553 (School Breakfast Program), 10.555 (National School Lunch Program), and 10.559 (Summer Food Service Program for Children) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Program Year 2024–2025 Criteria or specific requirement – Suspension and debarment – 2 CFR §200.214 Condition – During our audit, documentation supporting verification of the suspension and debarment status was not able to be provided for a vendor with which a new covered transaction was entered. However, the vendor is not currently registered as being suspended or debarred. Cause – District procedures are designed to verify suspension and debarment status only upon initial vendor setup and do not require verification upon execution of each new covered transaction with an existing vendor. Effect or potential effect – This condition increases the risk that covered transactions could be entered into with vendors that may become suspended or debarred after initial vendor setup, which could result in noncompliance with federal requirements if not addressed. Questioned Costs – N/A Context – Out of a population of five vendors with which a covered transaction was entered into during the period, one was selected for testing. Documentation supporting the verification of the suspension and debarment status for this vendor was not able to be provided. Our sample was not, and was not intended to be, statistically valid. Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable – N/A Recommendation – We recommend the District update its policies and procedures to require suspension and debarment verification for all covered transactions, including those involving existing vendors, either prior to contract execution or award or on an annual basis. The District should also ensure such reviews are documented and retained in accordance with federal record retention requirements. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action – Management agrees with this finding.

Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program Name: Wisconsin Charter Schools Program Waiver Cohort Assistance Listing Number: 84.282 Pass-Through Agency: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pass-Through Number(s): 2025-138005-DPI-WCSPWC1-360 Award Period: July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025 Type of Finding:  Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance  Material Noncompliance (Modified Opinion) Criteria: 2 CFR Section 200.214 of the Uniform Guidance details suspension and debarment requirements for non-federal entities. Condition: One City Schools, Inc. did not document suspension and debarment considerations in accordance with the Uniform Guidance. Questioned costs: None Context: We sampled 5 procurement transactions, noting that none of them had documentation ensuring the vendor was not suspended or debarred. Cause: Policies and procedures were put in place, but were not being followed. Effect: This could result in noncompliance, disallowed costs, or discontinuance of federal funding. Repeat Finding: Yes (2024-003) Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization maintain effective internal controls over suspension and debarment requirements. Views of responsible officials: One City Schools, Inc. agrees with the finding and are working on implementing internal controls over suspension and debarment.

2025-001 - Procurement, Debarment and Suspension Federal Program Information: U.S. Department of the Treasury, passed through the Vermont Department of Public Safety CFDA - 21.027 - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Criteria: The following CFRs apply to this finding: 2 CFR 200.214, 2 CFR section 200.317-200.327 Condition: During audit procedures it was identified that the Town did not check sam.gov to confirm that the contractor was not debarred or suspended from receiving federal funds nor did they request a Suspension and Debarment certification from the contractor. Cause: The Town does not have the necessary internal controls over compliance. Effect: Contracts may be awarded to contractors that are debarred or suspended from working on federally funded projects. Identification of Questioned Costs: None Identified. Context: Two contracts were reviewed out of three. This is not a statistically valid sample. Repeat Finding: This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation: It is recommended that the Town revise its procurement policy to fully incorporate all elements required by 2 CFR §200.317-200.327. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan: Please see the Corrective Action Plan.

Information on the federal program: Research and Development Cluster, Multiple Federal Grantors, Multiple Award Periods Criteria or specific requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment In accordance with 2 CFR 200.219 and 200.220, non-Federal entities must conduct procurements in a manner providing full and open competition and maintain documentation supporting the procurement method and the basis for contractor selection. Noncompetitive (sole source) procurement is permitted only under specific circumstances and generally requires adequate written justification and applicable approvals prior to contract execution. In accordance with 2 CFR 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. "Covered transactions" include contracts for goods and services awarded under a non-procurement transaction (e.g. , grant or cooperative agreement) that are expected to equal or exceed $25,000 or meet certain other criteria as specified in 2 CFR section 180.220. Condition: During our testing of procurement transactions, we noted that the Institute entered into a contract with a vendor using a noncompetitive/sole source method. However, the sole source justification was not completed and approved prior to execution of the contract and expenditures were charged to the federal grant. In addition, suspension and debarment checks were not completed for vendor. Cause: Miscommunication between departments within the Institute. Effect of Potential Effect: Failure to complete sole source documentation and suspension and debarment checks prior to award of the contract results in noncompliance with federal requirements and increases the risk that costs could be considered unallowable and federal funds could be paid to entities that are suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: We selected a sample of one vendor out of a population of four for procurement testing. This vendor was also selected for suspension and debarment testing out of a population of three vendors and subrecipients. Total expenditures charged to Federal grants under this contract was $26,850. The noncompetitive/sole source documentation and vendor suspension and debarment check were not completed and approved prior to execution of the contract and expenditures were charged to the Federal grant. It was noted after subsequent check that the subrecipient was not suspended or debarred. This sample was not intended to be, and was not, a statistically valid sample Identification as a Repeat Finding: 2023-002 Recommendation: Noncompetitive/sole source procurement documentation and suspension and debarment checks should be prepared, reviewed and approved before executing contracts and before charging costs to Federal grants. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the stated finding and has implemented a corrective action plan.

Finding Number: 2025‐001 Repeat Finding: No Program Name/Assistance Listing Title: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Agency: Department of Treasury Federal Award Number: WCG2023‐‐00008 Pass‐Through Agency: Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona Questioned Costs: N/A Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Criteria Non‐federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR §§200.318 through 200.326. Subrecipients must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable State and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. 2 CFR §§200.214 requires that vendors are checked to ensure they are not suspended or debarred from receiving federal funds. Condition The District did not follow Federal and State regulations governing procurement. Cause The District did not have policies and procedures in place to verify a vendor was not suspended or debarred. Effect The District was not in compliance with Federal and State regulations governing procurement. Context The sample was not intended to be, and was not, a statistically valid sample. For two vendors reviewed for suspension and debarment check requirements, the District did not maintain verification that the vendor was not suspended or debarred. Upon review of the vendors, neither were suspended or debarred. Recommendation The District should implement policies and procedures over procurement, specifically suspension and debarment, to ensure goods and services are procured through vendors who are not suspended or debarred, so that federal monies exceeding the formal procurement threshold are used appropriately. Views of Responsible Officials See Corrective Action Plan.

Federal Agency: 84 – Department of Education Federal Program Title: Higher Education Institutional Aid Assistance Listing Number: 84.031 Award Period: July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025 Type of Finding: • Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance • Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR §200.214, non-Federal entities must comply with the requirements of 2 CFR Part 180, which adopts the governmentwide requirements for suspension and debarment. These requirements prohibit non-Federal entities from entering into covered transactions with parties that are suspended or debarred and require verification of eligibility prior to entering into such transactions. Condition/Context: During our testing of Suspension and Debarment compliance, we selected a sample of 4 contracts under the Higher Education Institutional Aid program. We noted that for 1 of the 4 contracts tested, suspension and debarment verification was not completed prior to the contract date. Questioned Costs: $45,000 Effect: Failure to verify suspension and debarment status prior to contract execution increases the risk that the UEC could enter into covered transactions with suspended or debarred parties, resulting in noncompliance with Federal requirements. Cause: The UEC’s internal controls did not consistently ensure that suspension and debarment verification procedures were completed prior to contract execution. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend the UEC strengthen its procurement procedures to ensure suspension and debarment verification is consistently performed and documented prior to entering into covered transactions funded with Federal awards. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.

Program: COVID-19 - Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for Infectious Disease (ELC) Assistance Listing No.: 93.323 Federal Grantor: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Passed-through: California Department of Public Health Award No.: COVID-19ELC114 Award Year: 2021 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Type of Finding: Material Weakness and Instance of Noncompliance Criteria: 2 CFR section 200.303(a), Internal Controls, states that the non-Federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. Title 2 CFR Section 200.214 of the Uniform Guidance states that the County must comply with 2 CFR part 180, which implements Executive Orders 12549 and 12689. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Per 2 CFR Section 180.300, when a non-Federal entity enters into a covered transaction with an entity at a lower tier, the non-Federal entity must verify that the entity, as defined in 2 CFR section 180.995 and agency adopting regulations, is not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. This verification may be accomplished by (1) checking the System for Award Management (SAM) Exclusions maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA) and available at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/, (2) collecting a certification from the entity, or (3) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that entity. Condition: For three (3) out of three (3) contracts tested, we noted that there was no evidence the County verified that the contracted entities were not suspended or debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in federal programs prior to entering into the contract. Cause: The County did not have adequate internal controls in place to ensure vendor eligibility was verified and documented prior to contract execution, resulting in a lack of evidence supporting compliance with suspension and debarment requirements. Effect: As a result of this condition, the County was not able to demonstrate compliance with Uniform Guidance procurement requirements, increasing the risk that federal funds could be awarded to ineligible vendors. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified as a result of our procedures. Context/Sampling: A nonstatistical sample of three (3) out of twelve (12) contracts were tested. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No. Recommendation: We recommend the County enhance internal controls over procurement to ensure verification and documentation of vendor eligibility related to suspension and debarment are performed prior to contract execution, in accordance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees. See separately issued Corrective Action Plan.

Finding 2025-001 Internal control deficiency and noncompliance over procurement and suspension and debarment. Identification of the federal program: Assistance Listing Number 93.493: • Congressional Directives • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services • Federal award identification number – CE146487 • Federal award year – 7/1/2024 – 6/30/2025 • Pass-through entity – The Board of Regents of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center • Pass-through entity identifying numbers: H79FG000747 and H79FG001034 Criteria or specific requirement (including statutory, regulatory, or other citation): Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.303, Internal controls: The non-Federal entity must (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in “Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government,” issued by the Comptroller General of the United States, or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework,” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.318, General procurement standards: (a) the non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity’s documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 200.317 through 200.327; (b) non-Federal entities must maintain oversight to ensure that contractors perform in accordance with the terms, conditions, and specifications of their contracts or purchase orders; (c) (1) the non-Federal entity must maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.318, General procurement standards: (i) the non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement. These records will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.319, Competition: (a) All procurement transactions for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award must be conducted in a manner providing full and open competition consistent with the standards of this section and 200.320. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.320, Methods of procurement to be followed: The non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with the standards of this section and 200.317, 200.318, and 200.319 for any of the following methods of procurement used for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or sub-award: (a) (2) Small purchases – (i) Small purchase procedures. The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which is higher than the micro-purchase threshold but does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as determined appropriate by the non-Federal entity; (b) Formal procurement methods. When the value of the procurement for property or services under a Federal financial assistance award exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, or a lower threshold established by a non-Federal entity, formal procurement methods are required. Formal procurement methods require following documented procedures. Formal procurement methods also require public advertising unless a non-competitive procurement can be used in accordance with 200.319 or paragraph (c) of this section. The following formal methods of procurement are used for procurement of property or services above the simplified acquisition threshold or a value below the simplified acquisition threshold the non-Federal entity determines to be appropriate –(1) Sealed bids. A procurement method in which bids are publicly solicited and a firm fixed-price contract (lump sum or unit price) is awarded to the responsible bidder whose bid, conforming with all the material terms and conditions of the invitation for bids, is the lowest in price; (2) Proposals. A procurement method in which either a fixed price or cost-reimbursement type contract is awarded. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.320, Methods of procurement to be followed: (c) Noncompetitive procurement. There are specific circumstances in which noncompetitive procurement can be used. Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold; (2) The item is available only from a single source; (3) The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; (4) The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or (5) After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.324, Contract cost and price: (a) The non-Federal entity must perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold, including contract modifications. The method and degree of analysis is dependent on the facts surrounding the particular procurement situation, but, as a starting point, the non-Federal entity must make independent estimates before receiving bids or proposals. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart C 200.214, Suspension and debarment: Non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations that restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter I, Part 180, Subpart C 180.300: What must I do before I enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier? When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by (a) checking SAM Exclusions; (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Condition: During our testing over procurement, we observed management did not have documented procurement procedures that conformed to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR section 200.318 to 200.327 and written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. Management did not have internal controls in place over procurements to ensure price or rate quotations were obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources, formal procurements to ensure sealed bids or proposals were obtained through public advertising, and completion of a cost or price analysis in connection with all procurement actions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold. Management did not maintain records for procurements to document the history of procurement, including the rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. In addition, during our testing over suspension and debarment, we observed management did not retain support for internal control documentation for all vendors, evidencing that the vendors were searched for suspension and debarment upon entering into a contract supported with federal funds. Cause: Management did not have internal controls in place over the compliance requirements as stated in the criteria or specific requirement section above. Effect or potential effect: Procurements were not supported by internal controls and could potentially include unreasonable prices or rates. In addition, if a search for suspension and debarment is not conducted, the entity could contract with vendors that are suspended or debarred. Questioned costs: $1,385,165 – Assistance Listing Number 93.493 Federal award identification number – CE146487 Pass-through entity identifying numbers: H79FG000747 and H79FG001034 Questioned costs were computed as all procurements selected for testing. Questioned costs for each award are as follows: • CE146487: $60,874 • H79FG000747: $119,479 • H79FG001034: $1,204,812 Questioned costs means an amount, expended or received from a Federal award, that (1) is noncompliant or suspected noncompliant with Federal statutes, regulations, or the terms and conditions of the Federal award or (2) at the time of the audit, lacked adequate documentation to support compliance. Context: During our testing over procurements, we selected five vendors for testing with total expenditures of $1,385,165 from a population of procurements totaling $1,425,361, subject to formal procurement procedures. We observed management did not have internal controls in place to ensure the compliance requirements as stated in the criteria or specific requirement section above were performed for any of the five procurements selected for testing. For suspension and debarment, we selected five vendors for testing totaling $1,385,165. Management was unable to provide documentation that internal controls were executed for any of the vendors selected for testing. Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: No. Recommendation: Management should create documented procurement procedures that conform to the procurement standards identified in 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.327 and written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. Management should develop and implement internal controls over procurements to ensure price or rate quotations are obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources, formal procurements to ensure sealed bids or proposals are obtained through public advertising, and completion of a cost or price analysis in connection with all procurement actions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold. Management should maintain records for procurements to document the history of procurement, including the rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Management should create documented suspension and debarment procedures and develop and implement internal controls to ensure vendors were searched for suspension and debarment at the time of awarding a contract supported by federal funding and retain evidence supporting such procedures. Management should review the procurements identified as questioned costs to identify if any improper payments were made to the entity. Views of responsible officials: We agree with the finding that internal controls were not sufficient to maintain compliance with federal procurement standards under Title 2, Subtitle A, Chapter II, Part 200, Subpart D, 200.318 to 200.327 for a non-federal entity. However, the funds were expended for the intended purpose of the federal award. The Company is committed to implementing internal controls to ensure procurement related to federal awards follow 2 CFR section 200.318 to 200.327. The Company will update the procurement policy to ensure it complies with the requirements of 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.327, which includes the written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest, governing the actions of its employees who select, award, and administer procurement contracts. This policy will include procedures to ensure proper procurement for purchases to ensure sufficient price quotations are obtained from the required number of qualified sources, proper sealed bids or proposals are obtained through public advertising, an appropriate cost or price analysis is performed for procurement actions exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold, documentation is retained, and proper oversight is exercised to demonstrate compliance with 2 CFR section 200.318 through 200.327.

Finding Number: 2025-009 State/Educational Agency(s): Arkansas Department of Education Pass-Through Entity: Not Applicable AL Number(s) and Program Title(s): 21.027 – COVID 19: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of the Treasury Federal Award Number(s): SLFRP3627 Federal Award Year(s): 2021 Compliance Requirement(s) Affected: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Noncompliance and Significant Deficiency Repeat Finding: Not applicable Criteria: 2 CFR § 200.214 holds entities subject to 2 CFR Part 180, which restricts awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in federal assistance programs or activities. Condition and Context: The Agency is responsible for ensuring that entities receiving awards are registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database and have not been suspended or debarred. Registration must occur prior to the issuance of a contract or grant agreement. ALA staff reviewed 13 unique entity identifiers to determine if the Agency was in compliance with the requirement. The Agency failed to ensure two vendors, with agreements executed between September 2024 and October 2024, were registered with SAM prior to the Agency’s issuance of subawards to them. Statistically Valid Sample: Not a statistically valid sample. Questioned Costs: None Cause: The Agency failed to adhere to documented internal control procedures and did not provide oversight to ensure vendors receiving federal funding were monitored to determine federal exclusion. Effect: Failure to develop, document, and implement procedures for internal control over compliance increases risk for issuance of contracts and grant agreements to excluded or ineligible entities. Recommendation: ALA staff recommend the Agency strengthen internal controls by developing, documenting, and establishing policies to ensure contracts and grant agreements are only issued to eligible entities. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action: During the audit, it was noted that for a federally funded contract exceeding $25,000, documentation was not maintained to demonstrate that the vendor was verified as not suspended or debarred through Sam.gov as required by ADE policy and federal regulation. We acknowledge that the required verification was not documented. This occurrence was an oversight in our internal contract review process and a lack of standardized checklist to ensure verification was completed and retained. Upon identification of this finding, we have taken the following corrective action: 1. Immediate corrective action: We are working with the identified vendors to register in Sam.gov. 2. Process Improvement: Documentation of Sam.gov verification will be printed/saved and added to the contract file for all contracts using federal funds over $25,000. 3. Training: Relevant staff responsible for procurement and contract management have been trained in federal suspension and debarment requirements and ADE policy. DESE is committed to full compliance with federal requirements and ADE policy. These corrective actions are designed to ensure that suspension and debarment verification is consistently performed and properly documented for all applicable federally funded contracts going forward. Anticipated Completion Date: Completed. Contact Person: Greg Rogers Chief Fiscal Officer DESE 4 Capitol Mall, Room 204-A Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 682-4475 Greg.Rogers@ade.arkansas.gov

2025-002 U.S. Department of the Treasury Direct Award and Passed through Bristol County, Massachusetts COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – ALN 21.027 Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over Compliance and Compliance Finding Criteria: Per 2 CFR section 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. Condition: Suspension and debarment compliance was not verified for nine covered transactions. Cause: Lack of appropriate oversight resulted in required suspension and debarment checks not being performed. Effect: Grant transactions are not supported adequately, and the Town is at risk of awarding contracts to vendors not eligible to participate in federal awards programs. It was determined that none of the vendors were suspended or debarred from federal awards. Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No. Recommendation: The Town should implement procedures to document that all contractors under covered transactions that are performing services for the grant are not suspended or debarred. Views of Responsible Official: Management agrees with the finding.

Criteria Non-Federal entities are prohibited from entering into covered transactions with parties that are suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal assistance programs in accordance with 2 CFR Part 180, as adopted by Federal agencies. Additionally, 2 CFR 200.214 requires non-Federal entities to ensure that Federal awards are not made to parties listed as excluded in the System for Award Management (SAM). The Compliance Supplement further requires non-Federal entities to establish and maintain effective internal controls to provide reasonable assurance that vendors involved in covered transactions under Federal awards are properly screened and verified for eligibility prior to entering into such transactions. Condition The College did not have an updated suspension and debarment policy or established procedures in place to ensure that vendors utilized in federally funded R&D transactions were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs. Although management was able to locate a suspension and debarment policy, management indicated that the policy was outdated and not followed in practice. As a result, the College did not consistently perform or document verification internal control procedures to confirm vendor eligibility through SAM prior to entering into covered transactions under Federal awards during the audit period. There were no instances of noncompliance identified in our sample of 4. Cause The condition occurred because the College did not maintain effective internal controls or current procedures to ensure compliance with Federal suspension and debarment requirements. Specifically, although a policy existed, it was outdated and not implemented in practice. In addition, the College did not establish a formal process to routinely verify and document vendor eligibility for covered transactions under Federal awards. Possible Asserted Affect Failure to establish and maintain effective controls over suspension and debarment may cause the College to enter into transactions with vendors that are suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs. This condition may result in noncompliance with 2 CFR Part 180, 2 CFR 200.214, and the Procurement, Suspension and Debarment requirements of the OMB Compliance Supplement for the R&D Cluster, and limits the College’s ability to demonstrate compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of Federal awards. Questioned Costs No questioned costs were identified. Statistical Sampling The sample was not intended to be, and was not a statistically valid sample. Repeat Finding The conditions found do not constitute a repeat finding from the prior year. Recommendation We recommend that the College update and formally implement its suspension and debarment policy to ensure it is current, aligns with applicable Federal regulations, and is followed in practice. Specifically, the College should establish and document procedures to require verification of vendor eligibility through the System for Award Management (SAM) prior to entering into covered transactions under Federal awards. Additionally, the College should ensure that such verification procedures are performed consistently, documented appropriately, and retained to demonstrate compliance with 2 CFR Part 180, 2 CFR 200.214, and the Procurement, Suspension and Debarment requirements of the OMB Compliance Supplement for the R&D Cluster. Management should also consider periodic monitoring or review of these procedures to ensure ongoing compliance with Federal award requirements. Views of Responsible Officials The College concurs with this finding. To mitigate the risk of entering into covered transactions with suspended or debarred vendors, the College is updating and formalizing its suspension and debarment policy, establishing procedures to require and document SAM verification prior to covered transactions under Federal awards, and implementing periodic monitoring to ensure these procedures are performed consistently. These corrective actions are being implemented in fiscal year 2026.

NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PROCUREMENT AND SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT REQUIREMENTS, CORONAVIRUS STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL RECOVERY FUNDS, ASSISTANCE LISTING No. 21.027, Direct Allocation, AM-23-0256, AM-23-0255, YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.214, non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement, debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition: The city did not comply with the procurement standards outlined in 2 CFR §200.318-§200.327, which require competitive procurement processes and verification that contractors are not suspended or debarred. Specifically, the city did not verify the eligibility of program recipients/participants/contractors through the System for Award Management (SAM) or equivalent documentation in order to verify that they were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in the program. Cause: The city does not have procurement policies and procedures in place that allow it to comply with procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with program terms and conditions. Questioned costs: None. Recommendation: Management should develop procedures that will provide reasonable assurance that procurement of goods and services are made in compliance with applicable federal regulations and other procurement requirements specific to a federal award or subaward, and that no subaward, contract, or agreement for purchase of goods or services is made with any suspended or debarred party. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: The government agrees with this finding and will adhere to the attached corrective action plan.

NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PROCUREMENT AND SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT REQUIREMENTS, CORONAVIRUS STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL RECOVERY FUNDS, ASSISTANCE LISTING No. 21.027, Direct Allocation, MT-ARPA-CG-23-613, RRG-22-1864A, AMC-22-0137, YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.214, non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement, debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition: The city did not comply with the procurement standards outlined in 2 CFR §200.318-§200.327, which require competitive procurement processes and verification that contractors are not suspended or debarred. Specifically, the city did not verify the eligibility of program recipients/participants/contractors through the System for Award Management (SAM) or equivalent documentation in order to verify that they were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in the program. Cause: The city does not have procurement policies and procedures in place that allow it to comply with procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with program terms and conditions. Questioned costs: None. Recommendation: Management should develop procedures that will provide reasonable assurance that procurement of goods and services are made in compliance with applicable federal regulations and other procurement requirements specific to a federal award or subaward, and that no subaward, contract, or agreement for purchase of goods or services is made with any suspended or debarred party. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: The government agrees with this finding and will adhere to the attached corrective action plan.

Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Criteria: Under 2 CFR 200.214, recipients and subrecipients are subject to procurement suspension and debarment requirements, which prohibit entering into covered transactions with parties that are suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in federal programs. These requirements apply to contracts and subawards funded with federal financial assistance. In addition, 200.318–200.327 requires non federal entities to follow procurement standards applicable to federal awards, which include maintaining adequate oversight and compliance with applicable federal requirements, including suspension and debarment provisions. Condition: During our review of procurement transactions charged to federal awards, we noted that the Town did not document verification that vendors used for information technology and phone system upgrades and for the purchase of tasers and body worn cameras were not suspended or debarred at the time the contracts or purchase orders were executed. Specifically, the Town did not perform or retain evidence of a search of the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) or obtain vendor certifications demonstrating compliance with federal suspension and debarment requirements for these procurements. we did not identify any vendors that were suspended or debarred at the time of procurement. We did not identify any vendors that were suspended or debarred at the time of procurement. Universe/ Population: Four contracts totaling $7,347,577 were subjected to compliance testing. For two of the four contracts totaling $90,955, the Town did not perform or retain evidence of a search SAM.gov or obtain vendor certifications demonstrating compliance with federal suspension and debarment requirements. Cause: The Town did not have written procurement procedures or internal controls that required suspension and debarment verification to be performed and documented prior to awarding contracts or issuing purchase orders funded with federal awards. As a result, procurement staff relied on informal practices that did not include consistent SAM.gov verification. Questioned Costs: No questioned costs were identified. Effect: Without performing and documenting suspension and debarment checks, the Entity increases the risk of awarding contracts to vendors that are ineligible to participate in federally funded transactions. This noncompliance exposes the Town to potential cost disallowance, increased federal oversight, and audit findings related to procurement and internal controls. Further, questioned costs could arise if future review determines that payments were made to ineligible vendors. Recommendation: We recommend that the Town: 1. Update its written procurement policies and procedures to require verification of vendor eligibility through SAM.gov prior to awarding any contract or issuing any purchase order funded with federal awards. 2. Require procurement staff to retain documentation of the suspension and debarment verification (e.g., dated SAM.gov search results or vendor certifications). 3. Provide training to relevant personnel on federal procurement requirements, including suspension and debarment compliance under 2 CFR Part 200. 4. Require that all contracts pertaining to federally funded transactions include language that addresses termination for cause as well as other requirements stipulated in 2 CFR Part 200. View of Responsible Official: Management concurs with the finding.

2025-001 Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Award Identification Number: Not available Pass-Through Agency: Massachusetts Department of Revenue Pass-Through Number(s): ARPA#2FUNDS0330 Award Period: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025 Compliance Requirement: Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 2 Part 200.214 states that nonfederal entities are subject to the nonprocurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. These regulations restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition and Context: For one (1) of five (5) transactions tested, the Town had a documented verification that the vendor was not suspended or debarred. However, the verification was not dated/time-stamped. Therefore, we could not determine if the verification occurred prior to entering into transaction with the vendor. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Procedures were not in place to document the timing of the verification that all vendors were not suspended or debarred from participation in federal programs or activities. Effect: While this did not occur in the instance identified in this finding, lack of verification (or untimely verification) of vendors’ suspension or debarment status could cause federal grant funds to be expended to vendors that are excluded from participation in federal assistance programs or activities. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend procedures be strengthened to ensure that the timing of the verification of vendors’ suspension and debarment status is documented prior to executing transactions. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management agrees with the finding.

SIGNIFICANT DEFICIENCY; CRITERIA: 2 CFR §200.214 (Suspension and Debarment) stipulates that non-Federal entities must not enter into contracts or subawards with parties that are suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from Federal programs. Recipients must verify the eligibility of contractors by utilizing SAM.gov, collecting a written certification from the contractor, or including a clause in the contract requiring the contractor to certify its status.; CONDITION: During the audit, it was noted that the Town did not perform required checks to determine whether contractors or vendors selected for federally funded projects were suspended or debarred from doing business with the Federal government. Town staff reported they were not familiar with the Federal debarment requirements and did not use the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) or any other verification method before awarding contracts under FEMA‑funded projects.; EFFECT: Failure to verify contractor eligibility results in noncompliance with 2 CFR §200.214 can lead to questioned costs for the affected FEMA‑funded projects. There is increased risk that the Town would contract with an ineligible or prohibited entities which carries potential that FEMA would deobligate or seek repayment of Federal funds if a contractor is later determined to be ineligible.; CAUSE: The Town lacked written procedures addressing suspension and debarment requirements and was unaware of the mandatory steps needed to verify contractor eligibility prior to awarding federally funded work. Staff assigned to procurement and project oversight had not received training on Uniform Guidance or FEMA procurement standards.; RECOMMENDATION: The Town should implement written procedures to ensure compliance with suspension and debarment requirements for all federally funded procurements.; VIEWS OF RESPONSIBLE OFFICIALS AND PLANNED CORRECTIVE ACTIONS: The Town of Spruce Pine agrees with this finding. Finance procedures will be updated to include a suspension and debarment requirements. Town staff will be trained on the updated policies and its implementation.

Finding 2025-003 – Suspension and Debarment Federal Program: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ALN: 21.027 Compliance Requirement: Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance Criteria Per 2 CFR §180.300 and 2 CFR §200.214, non-Federal entities are prohibited from entering into covered transactions with parties that are suspended or debarred. Covered transactions are defined in 2 CFR Part 180, Subpart B. Non-Federal entities must verify the suspension and debarment status of participants through the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) or by obtaining certification from the contractor or subrecipient. Condition During testing of procurement and contract files, the Town did not retain documentation demonstrating that contractors were verified against SAM.gov. Additionally, contracts reviewed did not include provisions requiring contractors to certify that they and their subcontractors were not suspended or debarred. Cause The Town does not have a formalized process to ensure verification of contractor eligibility through SAM.gov or inclusion of required suspension and debarment certification language in contracts. Effect Failure to verify contractor eligibility increases the risk that the Town could enter into agreements with suspended or debarred parties, resulting in noncompliance with federal requirements. Questioned Costs None. Repeat Finding No. Recommendation We recommend the Town implement procedures to verify and document contractor eligibility through SAM.gov for all applicable procurements and to include required suspension and debarment certification language in all contracts and subawards. Supporting documentation should be retained in the procurement file. Views of Responsible Officials Management agrees with the finding and will implement procedures to verify contractor eligibility through SAM.gov and retain appropriate documentation in procurement files.

govern the performance of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. Cause of Condition: Policies and procedures have not been designed and implemented to ensure compliance with all federal award requirements. Effect of Condition: This condition resulted in noncompliance with federal grant requirements and could lead to a loss of federal funds to the County. Recommendation: OSAI recommends county officials and department heads gain an understanding of federal programs awarded to Creek County. Internal control procedures should be designed and implemented to ensure compliance with federal requirements. Management Response: Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners and County Clerk: It has been brought to our attention that we need an additional policy that covers conflict of interests and govern the performance of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. We have taken this recommendation and are implementing the proper language, for all employees to acknowledge in our County Handbook. We will strengthen this control, and add this to the handbook and it will be updated yearly, so that all conflict can be disclosed. Creek County prides itself in moving toward complete transparency and holding each employee accountable to disclose all information needed to make a proper selection of purchases. Creek County Clerk's Office will work with the District Attorney's Office for proper language. Criteria: Compliance and Reporting Guidance, State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (8. Procurement, Suspension & Debarment.) Section 200.308 General Procurement Standards reads as follows: (a) Documented procurement procedures. The recipient or subrecipient must maintain and use documented procedures for procurement transactions under a Federal award or subaward, including for acquisition of property or services. These documented procurement procedures must be consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards identified in §§ 200.317 through 200.327. (b) Oversight of contractors. Recipients and subrecipients must maintain oversight to ensure that contractors perform in accordance with the terms, conditions, and specifications of their contracts or purchase orders. See also § 200.501(h). (c) Conflicts of interest. (1) The recipient or subrecipient must maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of its employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. No employee, officer, agent, or board member with a real or apparent conflict of interest may participate in the selection, award, or administration of a contract supported by the Federal award. A conflict of interest includes when the employee, officer, agent, or board member, any member of their immediate family, their partner, or an organization that employs or is about to employ any of the parties indicated herein, has a financial or other interest in or a tangible personal benefit from an entity considered for a contract. An employee, officer, agent, and board member of the recipient or subrecipient may neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value from contractors. However, the recipient or subrecipient may set standards for situations where the financial interest is not substantial or a gift is an unsolicited item of nominal value. The recipient's or subrecipient's standards of conduct must also provide for disciplinary actions to be applied for violations by its employees, officers, agents, or board members. (2) If the recipient or subrecipient has a parent, affiliate, or subsidiary organization that is not a State, local government, or Indian Tribe, the recipient or subrecipient must also maintain written standards of conduct covering organizational conflicts of interest. Organizational conflicts of interest mean that because of relationships with a parent company, affiliate, or subsidiary organization, the recipient or subrecipient is unable or appears to be unable to be impartial in conducting a procurement action involving a related organization. (d) Avoidance of unnecessary or duplicative items. The recipient's or subrecipient's procedures must avoid the acquisition of unnecessary or duplicative items. Consideration should be given to consolidating or breaking out procurements to obtain a more economical purchase. When appropriate, an analysis should be made between leasing and purchasing property or equipment to determine the most economical approach. (e) Procurement arrangements using strategic sourcing. When appropriate for the procurement or use of common or shared goods and services, recipients and subrecipients are encouraged to enter into State and local intergovernmental agreements or inter-entity agreements for procurement transactions. These or similar procurement arrangements using strategic sourcing may foster greater economy and efficiency. Documented procurement actions of this type (using strategic sourcing, shared services, and other similar procurement arrangements) will meet the competition requirements of this part. (f) Use of excess and surplus Federal property. The recipient or subrecipient is encouraged to use excess and surplus Federal property instead of purchasing new equipment and property when it is feasible and reduces project costs. (g) Use of value engineering clauses. When practical, the recipient or subrecipient is encouraged to use value engineering clauses in contracts for construction projects of sufficient size to offer reasonable opportunities for cost reductions. Value engineering means analyzing each contract item or task to ensure its essential function is provided at the overall lowest cost. (h) Responsible contractors. The recipient or subrecipient must award contracts only to responsible contractors that possess the ability to perform successfully under the terms and conditions of a proposed contract. The recipient or subrecipient must consider contractor integrity, public policy compliance, proper classification of employees (see the Fair Labor Standards Act, 29 U.S.C. 201, chapter 8), past performance record, and financial and technical resources when conducting a procurement transaction. See also § 200.214. (i) Procurement records. The recipient or subrecipient must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. (j) Time-and-materials type contracts. (1) The recipient or subrecipient may use a time-and-materials type contract only after a determination that no other contract is suitable and if the contract includes a ceiling price that the contractor exceeds at its own risk. Time-and-materials type contract means a contract whose cost to a recipient or subrecipient is the sum of: (i) The actual cost of materials; and (ii) Direct labor hours charged at fixed hourly rates that reflect wages, general and administrative expenses, and profit. (2) Because this formula generates an open-ended contract price, a time-and-materials contract provides no positive profit incentive to the contractor for cost control or labor efficiency. Therefore, each contract must set a ceiling price that the contractor exceeds at its own risk. Further, the recipient or subrecipient awarding such a contract must assert a high degree of oversight to obtain reasonable assurance that the contractor is using efficient methods and effective cost controls.

2025-003 Suspension and Disbarment Condition: The Organization did not research vendors of covered transactions for potential suspension or debarment. Criteria: Per Code of Federal Regulations 2 CFR 200.214, the Organization is prohibited from entering into contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in Federal awards. Cause: The Organization did not have a procedure in place to research vendors for suspension and debarment. Effect: Although the audit did not identify any instances of noncompliance, the Organization did not research vendors for potential suspension and debarment and could have engaged with a vendor that was suspended or debarred. Recommendation: RBT recommends that the Organization establish policies and procedures requiring that the Organization verify and document vendors' suspension and debarment status prior to entering into contracts with the vendors. Management's Response: See corrective action plan.

Finding Reference Number: 2025-002 Reportable finding considered a significant deficiency - Inadequate Controls over Procurement documentation retention Program name and CFDA: Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) 64.033 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) 21.027 Federal award identification number: SSVF – 23-CA-437 CSLFRF – UNKNOWN Federal award year: SSVF – 10/1/2022-9/30/2025 CSLFRF – 8/1/2024-6/30/2025 Federal awarding agency: SSVF – Department of Veterans Affairs CSLFRF – Department of the Treasury Name of pass-through entity: SSVF – None CSLFRF – Alameda County Criteria Federal procurement requirements under 2 CFR 200.318–200.320 outline expectations for maintaining documentation to show procurement activity aligns with written procedures and promotes full and open competition. Additionally, 2 CFR 180.300, incorporated by 2 CFR 200.214, requires organizations to verify that vendors are not suspended or debarred before entering into an agreement. This verification can be completed by checking SAM.gov or obtaining a vendor certification. Statement of Condition Organization has written procurement procedures and consistently performs cost analyses for rental assistance-related procurements. Audit testing also confirmed that none of the vendors involved were suspended or debarred. However, the Organization was not able to provide documentation showing that suspension/debarment checks were performed before onboarding these vendors. While the procedures appear to be followed in practice, the documentation step was not retained. Cause It appears that documentation was not transitioned between staff members when the individual who initially performed these procedures left the organization. Effect or Potential Effect Without documentation of these checks, the Organization cannot fully demonstrate compliance with federal procurement and suspension/debarment requirements. Although no ineligible vendors were used, the missing documentation increases the risk that future procurements could be questioned or require additional follow-up. Questioned Costs None Recommendation We recommend the Organization take a few steps to strengthen this process going forward:  Incorporate a simple, consistent step for keeping documentation of SAM.gov checks or vendor certifications in each procurement file.  Communicate this requirement to the staff performing vendor onboarding so expectations are clear.  Periodically review procurement files to make sure documentation is being consistently retained. These adjustments should help ensure the strong practices already in place are fully supported by required documentation. Reportable Views of Responsible Officials See corrective action plan.

Identification of the Federal Program: Assistance Listing Number: 16.922 Assistance Listing Title: Equitable Sharing Program Federal Agency: U.S. Department of the Justice Federal Award Identification Number: N/A Criteria or Specific Requirement (Including Statutory, Regulatory, or Other Citation): Prior to entering into subawards and contracts with award funds, recipients must ensure that contractors and subcontractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in federally funded programs pursuant to 2 CFR Part 180 and 2 CFR §200.214. Condition: During the audit, we noticed that the City did not perform suspension and debarment checks on the contractors that they hired with Asset Forfeiture monies. Cause: The City does not have formal policies and procedures in place to ensure the suspension and debarment review process over vendors that provides goods or services to the City’s programs was conducted prior to entering into a contract. Effect or Potential Effect: Without verifying whether vendors are suspended or debarred from working on federally-funded projects prior to the contract being awarded, the City could be contracting with vendors that are prohibited from working on federally funded projects and incurring potentially disallowed costs. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: See condition above for the context of the finding. Identification as a Repeat Finding, If Applicable: No. Recommendation: We recommended the City develop policies and procedures to incorporate the suspension and debarment verification prior to awarding contracts. Views of Responsible Officials: Management concurs with the finding and agrees to implement necessary corrective procedures.

2025-001 U.S. Department of the Treasury COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds - ALN 21.027 Material Weakness in Internal Controls Over Compliance Criteria: Per 2 CFR section 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with or making subawards under covered transactions to parties that are suspended or debarred. Condition: Suspension and debarment compliance was not verified for nine covered transactions. Cause: Lack of appropriate oversight resulted in required suspension and debarment checks not being performed. Effect: Town is at risk of awarding contracts to vendors not eligible to participate in federal awards programs. It was determined that none of these vendors were suspended or debarred from federal awards. Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding from Prior Year: No. Recommendation: The Town should implement procedures to document that all contractors under covered transactions that are performing services for the grant are not suspended or debarred. Views of Responsible Official: Management agrees with the finding.

Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury Federal Program Name: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Federal Award Identification Number: Not available Pass-Through Agency: Massachusetts Department of Revenue Pass-Through Number(s): Unknown Award Period: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025 Compliance Requirement: Suspension and Debarment Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 2 Part 200.214 states that nonfederal entities are subject to the nonprocurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. These regulations restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition and Context: For each of the five (5) transactions tested, the Town did not have a documented verification that the vendor was not suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Procedures were not in place to document the verification that vendors were not suspended or debarred from participation in federal programs or activities. Effect: Lack of verification (or untimely verification) of vendors’ suspension or debarment status could cause federal grant funds to be expended to vendors that are excluded from participation in federal assistance programs or activities. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend procedures be implemented to ensure that the verification of vendors’ suspension and debarment status is documented prior to executing transactions. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management agrees with the finding.

2025-001 – Suspension and Debarment Cluster: Research and Development Grantor: Social Security Administration, National Science Foundation Award Name: Center for Retirement Research at Boston College and Affiliated Institutions: Retirement and Disability Research Consortium, Building a Youth-Led Learning Community through Automating Hydroponic Systems, Empowering Youth in STEM and Technological Careers through AI-Enhanced Sustainable and Community-Focused Urban Gardening Award Number: 6 RDR23000010, 2048994, 2241766 Award Year: FY2025 Assistance Listing Numbers: 96.007, 47.076, 47.076 Assistance Listing Titles: Social Security Research and Demonstration; STEM Education (formerly Education and Human Resources) Pass-Through Entities: None - Direct Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.214, when entering into a covered transaction with an entity, the auditee must have established procedures to verify that the entity is not suspended, debarred or otherwise excluded from participating in the transaction. Condition: For 1 of 25 new vendors sampled, the vendor was not included in the ongoing suspension and debarment monitoring process, which is performed via a third-party servicer. Upon further discussion with the University, it was determined that the selected vendor was part of one day where a total of an additional 24 new vendors were also excluded from the ongoing process. Of the 25 total vendors, 3 of these vendors incurred expenditures related to federal awards totaling approximately $7,000 during the fiscal year. Cause: There was a system failure on one specific day between the University and the third-party servicer that prevented the suspension and debarment checks from being performed on new vendors. After the system failure, University personnel did not confirm that new vendors that were intended to be added on the date in question, were in fact added to the system. Effect: New vendors were not checked for suspension and debarment prior to the University entering into a transaction with the affected vendors. Questioned Costs: None noted. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: PwC recommends cross training of individuals responsible for the daily system interactions with the third-party servicer to ensure any system issues are promptly resolved and new vendors are checked for suspension and debarment prior to the University entering into a transaction with them. Management’s Views and Corrective Action Plan: Management’s response is included in Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan included at the end of this report after the Schedule of Status of Prior Audit Findings.

Congressional Grants – Suspension and Debarment: Information on Federal Program: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Congressional Grant (Federal Assistance Listing Number 14.251). Criteria: 2 CFR Section 200.214 stipulates that no awards, subawards, or contracts be awarded to parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Statement of Condition: During our discussions with management, we noted that the Organization is not verifying the eligibility of vendors to participate in Federal assistance programs on an annual basis. Statement of Cause: The Organization did not review compliance requirements related to procurement outlined in 2 CFR Section 200.214. Statement of Effect: The Organization is not in compliance with 2 CFR Section 200.214. The Organization is not performing required procedures, as a result, vendors that are not eligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities could be selected or the Organization could be overpaying for goods and services. Questioned Costs: None. Perspective Information: As part of the required procurement testing, a review of the vendor charged to the Congressional grant and therefore represented purchases with federal dollars was performed. The vendor was not suspended or debarred from participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization review the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.214 and ensure that their procurement procedures are being followed and that a review of the eligibility of potential vendors to participate in Federal assistance programs or activities is performed prior to disbursing funds to the vendor. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: The Capital District YMCA reviewed the vendor used for our project when the auditors brought this to our attention and we did not find any suspension or disbarment information. We will incorporate this vendor review into our process for all programs or activities related to Federal contracts. This will be done in conjunction with the procurement policy and be in place by July 31, 2025.

Congressional Grants – Suspension and Debarment: Information on Federal Program: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Congressional Grant (Federal Assistance Listing Number 14.251). Criteria: 2 CFR Section 200.214 stipulates that no awards, subawards, or contracts be awarded to parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Statement of Condition: During our discussions with management, we noted that the Organization is not verifying the eligibility of vendors to participate in Federal assistance programs on an annual basis. Statement of Cause: The Organization did not review compliance requirements related to procurement outlined in 2 CFR Section 200.214. Statement of Effect: The Organization is not in compliance with 2 CFR Section 200.214. The Organization is not performing required procedures, as a result, vendors that are not eligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities could be selected or the Organization could be overpaying for goods and services. Questioned Costs: None. Perspective Information: As part of the required procurement testing, a review of the vendor charged to the Congressional grant and therefore represented purchases with federal dollars was performed. The vendor was not suspended or debarred from participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization review the requirements of 2 CFR Section 200.214 and ensure that their procurement procedures are being followed and that a review of the eligibility of potential vendors to participate in Federal assistance programs or activities is performed prior to disbursing funds to the vendor. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: The Capital District YMCA reviewed the vendor used for our project when the auditors brought this to our attention and we did not find any suspension or disbarment information. We will incorporate this vendor review into our process for all programs or activities related to Federal contracts. This will be done in conjunction with the procurement policy and be in place by July 31, 2025.

Federal Program: 93.493 – Congressional Directives, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, FAIN CE152180 passed through the Health Resources & Services Administration Criteria or Specific Requirement: Procurement, Suspension & Debarment, 2 CFR 200.320 Condition: The Company paid funds to a vendor that qualified under sole source procurement requirements. In the vendor’s contract with the Company, the vendor confirmed it was not suspended or debarred. The Company did not document its process for determining sole source procurement or document its search to confirm the vendor was not suspended or debarred. Cause: The Company does not have policies in place that comply with federal procurement, suspension and debarment requirements. Effect: The Company’s internal controls did not ensure proper documentation that the vendor materially complied with the federal procurement requirements. Questioned Costs: None Context: Federal procurement standards require entities that receive federal awards to have specific policies that comply with 2 CFR Section 200.318-320. The requirements specify that policies must establish thresholds and procedures for micro-purchases, simplified acquisitions, and formal purchases. When vendors are selected, federal funds are prohibited from going to certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in federal awards (2 CFR 200.214). The Company did not have policies in place to ensure compliance with these federal procurement guidelines. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: The Company has policies for vendor qualification in place surrounding critical vendors. We recommend considering all vendors that are awarded contracts to be paid with federal awards critical or otherwise amending the Company’s contracting review process or critical vendor policy to incorporate specific procedures when federal funds are used. These procedures should include a documented search of Sam.gov for suspension and debarment of the vendor. The Company should establish procurement thresholds and specific procedures for those thresholds as outlined in 2 CFR Section 200.318-320. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions – Management agrees with the finding. See attached corrective action plan.

Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR §180 and §200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from entering into covered transactions with parties that are suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in federal programs. Entities must verify that contractors and subcontractors are not excluded by checking the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) prior to awarding contracts funded by federal awards. Condition and Context: During our audit of procurement activities under the Health Center Infrastructure Support federal award, we identified multiple instances where the entity failed to verify the suspension and debarment status of vendors prior to awarding contracts exceeding the $25,000 threshold. Documentation of verification through SAM.gov or equivalent methods was not available for these transactions. Subsequent review of SAM.gov indicated no instances of suspended or debarred vendors being used on the project funded with federal awards. Effect: Failure to verify vendor eligibility increases the risk of awarding federal funds to ineligible parties, which may result in questioned costs, reputational harm, and potential disallowance of expenditures by the federal awarding agency. Cause: While the Center’s formal policies dictate that procedures will be followed to ensure the above criteria are met, staff responsible for procurement were unaware of the verification requirement or did not consistently apply it. Recommendation: We recommend the entity ensure that staff involved with procuring contracts using federal awards are aware of the federal requirement, including the already-established policies that the Center has regarding such requirements. Staff involved in procurement should receive training on federal suspension and debarment requirements to ensure consistent compliance.

2025-004 Suspension and Debarment Program Information Federal Organizations U.S Department of Health and Human Services U.S Department of Agriculture (passed through California Department of Public Health) Assistance Listing Numbers 93.224 & 93.527 Health Center Program Cluster 10.557 WIC Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children Award Numbers H80CS00540-23, H8GCS48292, H8LCS51370, 22-10237 A05 Criteria Title 2 CFR 200.214 and Title 2 CFR 180.300 require that organizations “verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified” before entering into covered transactions (procurement contracts, purchase orders, or agreements greater than or equal to $25,000) with persons or vendors. [ ] Compliance Finding [ ] Significant Deficiency [X] Material Weakness Condition The Organization entered into covered transactions without verification that vendors/contractors were not excluded from doing business with the federal government. This finding appears to be a systemic issue. Cause The Organization did not maintain documentation evidencing its compliance with its policy to verify that persons or entities contracted with were not listed on the exclusions list prior to entering into the contracts or purchase agreements. Effect The Organization may have entered into covered transactions with persons who have been suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs None noted. Context We tested four vendors with “covered transactions” under assistance listing numbers 93.224 and 93.527 and six under assistance listing number 10.557. All vendors selected were missing evidence of suspension and debarment checks being performed. However, we were able to independently verify that the vendors in question were not excluded through SAM.GOV. Recommendation We recommend the Organization perform vendor checks prior to entering into procurements meeting the covered transaction criteria, and retain documentation that the checks were performed and when they were performed. In addition, we recommend that the Organization update these checks on an annual basis. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action Management is in agreement with this finding and will take corrective action as outlined below.

2025-004 Lack of Documentation for SAM.gov Exclusion Checks. Type: Material Weakness. Condition: The Village did not retain documentation to support that exclusion checks were performed on SAM.gov for vendors and subrecipients associated with the Water and Waste Disposal Systems For Rural Communities program. As a result, there is no evidence that the entity verified whether these parties were suspended or debarred prior to entering covered transactions. Criteria: Per 2 CFR 180.300 and 200.214 of the Uniform Guidance, non-federal entities must verify that contractors and subrecipients are not suspended or debarred before awarding federal funds. Acceptable methods include: - Checking the SAM.gov exclusion list, - Collecting a certification from the entity, - Including a clause in the contract or agreement. - Documentation of the verification process must be retained to demonstrate compliance. Cause: The entity did not have a formal process in place to ensure that SAM.gov checks were performed and documented prior to awarding federal funds. Effect: Without documented verification, there is a risk that federal funds could be awarded to ineligible parties, potentially resulting in noncompliance with federal regulations and exposure to questioned costs or future audit findings. Questioned Costs: n/a. Recommendation: We recommend that the Village implement and enforce procedures to: - Perform SAM.gov exclusion checks prior to awarding federal funds, - Retain screenshots or other documentation as evidence of the checks, - Train relevant staff on compliance requirements under Uniform Guidance. Views of Responsible Officials: Management concurs with the auditor’s finding regarding the lack of verification against the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) prior to entering into agreements with subrecipients and contractors under federal awards. We acknowledge that conducting these checks is a critical control to ensure compliance with federal regulations and to prevent engagement with suspended or debarred entities. The omission was due to a gap in our internal procedures, and we are taking immediate corrective action. Management is implementing a formal policy requiring SAM.gov verification for all applicable transactions, and staff will be trained on the updated procedures. We are also exploring automated solutions to ensure consistent documentation and compliance moving forward. We appreciate the auditor’s observation and remain committed to strengthening our internal controls and ensuring full compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements.

2025-005 Suspension and Debarment Program Information Federal Organization U.S Department of Health and Human Services Assistance Listing Numbers 93.224 & 93.527 Health Center Program Cluster Award Numbers H80CS00513, H8FCS41684 Criteria [ ] Compliance Finding [ ] Significant Deficiency [X] Material Weakness Title 2 CFR 200.214 and Title 2 CFR 180.300 require that organizations “verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified” before entering into covered transaction (procurement contracts, purchase orders or agreements greater than or equal to $25,000) with persons or vendors. Condition The Organization entered into covered transactions without verification that vendors/contractors were not excluded from doing business with the federal government. This finding appears to be a systemic problem Cause The Organization did not follow its policy to verify that persons or entities contracted with were not listed on the exclusions list prior to entering into the contracts or purchase agreements. Effect The Organization may have entered into covered transactions with persons who have been suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs None noted. Context Out of four covered transactions selected, only one included evidence that an exclusion check was performed prior to signing the contract. Exclusions checks were performed after documentation was requested by the auditor and no excluded vendors were identified. Recommendation We recommend the Organization implement controls requiring that exclusion checks be performed prior to signing any contracts or purchase orders or agreements that are covered transactions. This exclusion check should be maintained as part of the supporting documentation for the expenditure. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action Management is in agreement with this finding and will take corrective action as outlined below.

2025-005 Suspension and Debarment Program Information Federal Organization U.S Department of Health and Human Services Assistance Listing Numbers 93.224 & 93.527 Health Center Program Cluster Award Numbers H80CS00513, H8FCS41684 Criteria [ ] Compliance Finding [ ] Significant Deficiency [X] Material Weakness Title 2 CFR 200.214 and Title 2 CFR 180.300 require that organizations “verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified” before entering into covered transaction (procurement contracts, purchase orders or agreements greater than or equal to $25,000) with persons or vendors. Condition The Organization entered into covered transactions without verification that vendors/contractors were not excluded from doing business with the federal government. This finding appears to be a systemic problem Cause The Organization did not follow its policy to verify that persons or entities contracted with were not listed on the exclusions list prior to entering into the contracts or purchase agreements. Effect The Organization may have entered into covered transactions with persons who have been suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs None noted. Context Out of four covered transactions selected, only one included evidence that an exclusion check was performed prior to signing the contract. Exclusions checks were performed after documentation was requested by the auditor and no excluded vendors were identified. Recommendation We recommend the Organization implement controls requiring that exclusion checks be performed prior to signing any contracts or purchase orders or agreements that are covered transactions. This exclusion check should be maintained as part of the supporting documentation for the expenditure. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action Management is in agreement with this finding and will take corrective action as outlined below.

Finding 2024-001: Suspension and Debarment (Significant Deficiency) Information on the Federal Program: 93.048 Criteria: According to 2 CFR §200.30, the non-Federal entity (i.e. the Organization) must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations and terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in "Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government" issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or in the "Internal Control Integrated Framework" issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). According to 2 CFR §200.214, the non-Federal entity is subject to to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Condition: The Organization failed to perform and/or properly document its due diligence with respect to these requirements. Cause: The Organization experienced turnover during the year, resulting in inconsistency and oversight of the compliance requirement. Effect or Potential Effect: The Organization is exposed to an increased risk that future noncompliance could occur by entering into transactions with vendors, contractors, or consultants that are suspended and debarred. If a non-Federal entity knowingly does business with an excluded person, the agency responsible for the Center's funding may disallow costs, annul or terminate the transaction, issue a stop work order, debar or suspend the non-Federal entity, or take other remedies as appropriate. Questioned Costs: None noted. Context: During our audit, we noted two cases our of nine samples in which the Organization did not perform or did not maintain proper support to demonstrate that it performed checks via SAM.gov to ensure that potential vendors, contractors, or consultants are suspended or debarred. The failure to screen such parties increases the possibility that U.S. Government funds may inadvertently be provided to individuals or organizations deemed to be excluded by the U.S. Government. Identification as a Repeat Finding, if Applicable: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend the Organization implement internal controls to ensure that all vendors, contractors, and consultants are screened for suspension and debarment prior to entering into any executed contract. We further recommend that a policy be formalized and implemented that requires an annual screening of any current vendors, contractors, or consultants as well.

Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Federal agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Program: Continuation of the National Evaluations System for Health Technology Coordinating Center Assistance listing number: 93.103 Federal award identification number and year: • 2U01FD006292-06 2024 • 3U01FD006292-06S1 2023 Criteria: 2 CFR 200.318 states non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures that conform to 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200.214 states non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Order 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR Part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. 2 CFR 200 requires adequate documentation of compliance with 2 CFR 200.214. Condition and context: The Organization established policies and procedures over suspension and debarment, including checking all vendors against the government suspension and debarment listing. The policies and procedures for suspension and debarment were being followed however the evidence of the search on sam.gov was not retained. A sample of five vendors with a total contract value of $8,528,526 was selected from a population of twelve. Cause: The Organization’s management did not retain evidence of compliance with the above criteria regarding suspension and debarment due to oversight. Effect: The Organization’s documentation was lacking evidence of tracking vendors for suspension and debarment. Questioned costs: None Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management updates its policies and procedures to ensure adequate supporting documentation of suspension and debarment verification is maintained. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding. See corrective action plan.

Procurement, Suspension and Debarment Federal agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Program: Continuation of the National Evaluations System for Health Technology Coordinating Center Assistance listing number: 93.103 Federal award identification number and year: • 2U01FD006292-06 2024 • 3U01FD006292-06S1 2023 Criteria: 2 CFR 200.318 states non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures that conform to 2 CFR 200.317 through 200.327. 2 CFR 200.214 states non-Federal entities are subject to the non-procurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Order 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR Part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. 2 CFR 200 requires adequate documentation of compliance with 2 CFR 200.214. Condition and context: The Organization established policies and procedures over suspension and debarment, including checking all vendors against the government suspension and debarment listing. The policies and procedures for suspension and debarment were being followed however the evidence of the search on sam.gov was not retained. A sample of five vendors with a total contract value of $8,528,526 was selected from a population of twelve. Cause: The Organization’s management did not retain evidence of compliance with the above criteria regarding suspension and debarment due to oversight. Effect: The Organization’s documentation was lacking evidence of tracking vendors for suspension and debarment. Questioned costs: None Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management updates its policies and procedures to ensure adequate supporting documentation of suspension and debarment verification is maintained. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding. See corrective action plan.

Assistance Listing, Federal Agency, and Program Name ALN 21.027, Department of Treasury, COVID 19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ALN 20.205, Department of Transportation, Highway Planning and Construction Federal Award Identification Number and Year ALN 21.027: 1505 0271, 2022 ALN 20.205: 24455, 2021 Pass through Entity ALN 21.027: Not applicable ALN 20.205: Colorado Department of Transportation Finding Type Material weakness and material noncompliance with laws and regulations Repeat Finding No Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.214, nonfederal entities are subject to the nonprocurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, as well as 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict making federal awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in federal awards. Nonfederal entities may satisfy the criteria prescribed by 2 CFR part 180 by either checking SAM.gov exclusions, collecting a certification or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with the contracted party. Condition The Town could not provide evidence that it performed a check to verify its contractors were not suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs None Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed Not applicable Context The Town used each of its grants to procure services from one contractor and was unable to provide evidence that the check for suspension and debarment was completed prior to entering into its contracts, respectively. Plante & Moran, PLLC reviewed the SAM.gov website, noting that the two vendors were not listed as suspended or disbarred. Cause and Effect The Town did not retain evidence to support that it had conducted the search for whether the contractors were suspended or debarred prior to entering into the contracts. The lack of control could result in the Town entering into contracts with contractors that are suspended or debarred. Subsequently, the Town did complete the search on SAM.gov and retained evidence to support that the contractors were not suspended of debarred, thereby creating no questioned costs. Recommendation We recommend the Town implement its controls as designed by retaining supporting documentation to support that contractors are not suspended or debarred. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan - The Town acknowledges the finding. The oversight was unintentional and occurred due to a lack of formalized procedures for verifying suspension and debarment status for all applicable federal contracts and subawards.

Assistance Listing, Federal Agency, and Program Name ALN 21.027, Department of Treasury, COVID 19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ALN 20.205, Department of Transportation, Highway Planning and Construction Federal Award Identification Number and Year ALN 21.027: 1505 0271, 2022 ALN 20.205: 24455, 2021 Pass through Entity ALN 21.027: Not applicable ALN 20.205: Colorado Department of Transportation Finding Type Material weakness and material noncompliance with laws and regulations Repeat Finding No Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.214, nonfederal entities are subject to the nonprocurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, as well as 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict making federal awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in federal awards. Nonfederal entities may satisfy the criteria prescribed by 2 CFR part 180 by either checking SAM.gov exclusions, collecting a certification or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with the contracted party. Condition The Town could not provide evidence that it performed a check to verify its contractors were not suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs None Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed Not applicable Context The Town used each of its grants to procure services from one contractor and was unable to provide evidence that the check for suspension and debarment was completed prior to entering into its contracts, respectively. Plante & Moran, PLLC reviewed the SAM.gov website, noting that the two vendors were not listed as suspended or disbarred. Cause and Effect The Town did not retain evidence to support that it had conducted the search for whether the contractors were suspended or debarred prior to entering into the contracts. The lack of control could result in the Town entering into contracts with contractors that are suspended or debarred. Subsequently, the Town did complete the search on SAM.gov and retained evidence to support that the contractors were not suspended of debarred, thereby creating no questioned costs. Recommendation We recommend the Town implement its controls as designed by retaining supporting documentation to support that contractors are not suspended or debarred. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan - The Town acknowledges the finding. The oversight was unintentional and occurred due to a lack of formalized procedures for verifying suspension and debarment status for all applicable federal contracts and subawards.

Assistance Listing, Federal Agency, and Program Name ALN 21.027, Department of Treasury, COVID 19 Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ALN 20.205, Department of Transportation, Highway Planning and Construction Federal Award Identification Number and Year ALN 21.027: 1505 0271, 2022 ALN 20.205: 24455, 2021 Pass through Entity ALN 21.027: Not applicable ALN 20.205: Colorado Department of Transportation Finding Type Material weakness and material noncompliance with laws and regulations Repeat Finding No Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.214, nonfederal entities are subject to the nonprocurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, as well as 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict making federal awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in federal awards. Nonfederal entities may satisfy the criteria prescribed by 2 CFR part 180 by either checking SAM.gov exclusions, collecting a certification or adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with the contracted party. Condition The Town could not provide evidence that it performed a check to verify its contractors were not suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs None Identification of How Questioned Costs Were Computed Not applicable Context The Town used each of its grants to procure services from one contractor and was unable to provide evidence that the check for suspension and debarment was completed prior to entering into its contracts, respectively. Plante & Moran, PLLC reviewed the SAM.gov website, noting that the two vendors were not listed as suspended or disbarred. Cause and Effect The Town did not retain evidence to support that it had conducted the search for whether the contractors were suspended or debarred prior to entering into the contracts. The lack of control could result in the Town entering into contracts with contractors that are suspended or debarred. Subsequently, the Town did complete the search on SAM.gov and retained evidence to support that the contractors were not suspended of debarred, thereby creating no questioned costs. Recommendation We recommend the Town implement its controls as designed by retaining supporting documentation to support that contractors are not suspended or debarred. Views of Responsible Officials and Corrective Action Plan - The Town acknowledges the finding. The oversight was unintentional and occurred due to a lack of formalized procedures for verifying suspension and debarment status for all applicable federal contracts and subawards.

2024-003 Significant Deficiency in Internal Control and Compliance over Major Programs Funding Agency: Department of Treasury ALN: 21.027 Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with parties that are suspended or debarred. 2 CFR 200.318(i) also states that "subrecipients must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection and the basis for the contract price." Condition The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization neglected to document their suspension and debarment verification process for one of four procurement transactions tested. The Organization is also required by the Washington State Department of Agriculture ("WSDA") to receive prior approval for any equipment purchase or equipment repairs over $5,000. One of the four transactions tested did not receive prior approval from WSDA to make the purchase. There was no documentation that could support approval was received from WSDA after the purchase had been made. Cause The Organization claimed the suspension and debarment check occurred prior to entering into the transaction but neglected to retain documentation. The Organization also did not properly follow its procurement policy, nor the policy required by WSDA, requiring prior approval for any equipment purchase or repair over $5,000. Effect Payments may have been made to suspended or debarred vendors and gone undetected by the Organization. The Organization could have also made an equipment purchase or equipment repair that would not be refunded by WSDA (the pass-through entity). Repeat Finding No. Auditor's Recommendation The Organization should ensure the employee responsible for conducting a suspension and debarment check is (1) aware of the necessity to document the verification was done and (2) capable of documenting the verification. The Organization should also reevaluate its internal controls over procurements with WSDA funding to ensure that the Organization is receiving approval from the WSDA prior to making the purchase. Employees tasked responsible for making procurement transactions should be educated on the proper procurement procedures. Management should be checking for the WSDA approval prior to signing off on cash disbursements for equipment purchases or equipment repairs.

2024-003 Significant Deficiency in Internal Control and Compliance over Major Programs Funding Agency: Department of Treasury ALN: 21.027 Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with parties that are suspended or debarred. 2 CFR 200.318(i) also states that "subrecipients must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection and the basis for the contract price." Condition The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization neglected to document their suspension and debarment verification process for one of four procurement transactions tested. The Organization is also required by the Washington State Department of Agriculture ("WSDA") to receive prior approval for any equipment purchase or equipment repairs over $5,000. One of the four transactions tested did not receive prior approval from WSDA to make the purchase. There was no documentation that could support approval was received from WSDA after the purchase had been made. Cause The Organization claimed the suspension and debarment check occurred prior to entering into the transaction but neglected to retain documentation. The Organization also did not properly follow its procurement policy, nor the policy required by WSDA, requiring prior approval for any equipment purchase or repair over $5,000. Effect Payments may have been made to suspended or debarred vendors and gone undetected by the Organization. The Organization could have also made an equipment purchase or equipment repair that would not be refunded by WSDA (the pass-through entity). Repeat Finding No. Auditor's Recommendation The Organization should ensure the employee responsible for conducting a suspension and debarment check is (1) aware of the necessity to document the verification was done and (2) capable of documenting the verification. The Organization should also reevaluate its internal controls over procurements with WSDA funding to ensure that the Organization is receiving approval from the WSDA prior to making the purchase. Employees tasked responsible for making procurement transactions should be educated on the proper procurement procedures. Management should be checking for the WSDA approval prior to signing off on cash disbursements for equipment purchases or equipment repairs.

2024-003 Significant Deficiency in Internal Control and Compliance over Major Programs Funding Agency: Department of Treasury ALN: 21.027 Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with parties that are suspended or debarred. 2 CFR 200.318(i) also states that "subrecipients must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection and the basis for the contract price." Condition The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization neglected to document their suspension and debarment verification process for one of four procurement transactions tested. The Organization is also required by the Washington State Department of Agriculture ("WSDA") to receive prior approval for any equipment purchase or equipment repairs over $5,000. One of the four transactions tested did not receive prior approval from WSDA to make the purchase. There was no documentation that could support approval was received from WSDA after the purchase had been made. Cause The Organization claimed the suspension and debarment check occurred prior to entering into the transaction but neglected to retain documentation. The Organization also did not properly follow its procurement policy, nor the policy required by WSDA, requiring prior approval for any equipment purchase or repair over $5,000. Effect Payments may have been made to suspended or debarred vendors and gone undetected by the Organization. The Organization could have also made an equipment purchase or equipment repair that would not be refunded by WSDA (the pass-through entity). Repeat Finding No. Auditor's Recommendation The Organization should ensure the employee responsible for conducting a suspension and debarment check is (1) aware of the necessity to document the verification was done and (2) capable of documenting the verification. The Organization should also reevaluate its internal controls over procurements with WSDA funding to ensure that the Organization is receiving approval from the WSDA prior to making the purchase. Employees tasked responsible for making procurement transactions should be educated on the proper procurement procedures. Management should be checking for the WSDA approval prior to signing off on cash disbursements for equipment purchases or equipment repairs.

2024-003 Significant Deficiency in Internal Control and Compliance over Major Programs Funding Agency: Department of Treasury ALN: 21.027 Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with parties that are suspended or debarred. 2 CFR 200.318(i) also states that "subrecipients must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection and the basis for the contract price." Condition The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization neglected to document their suspension and debarment verification process for one of four procurement transactions tested. The Organization is also required by the Washington State Department of Agriculture ("WSDA") to receive prior approval for any equipment purchase or equipment repairs over $5,000. One of the four transactions tested did not receive prior approval from WSDA to make the purchase. There was no documentation that could support approval was received from WSDA after the purchase had been made. Cause The Organization claimed the suspension and debarment check occurred prior to entering into the transaction but neglected to retain documentation. The Organization also did not properly follow its procurement policy, nor the policy required by WSDA, requiring prior approval for any equipment purchase or repair over $5,000. Effect Payments may have been made to suspended or debarred vendors and gone undetected by the Organization. The Organization could have also made an equipment purchase or equipment repair that would not be refunded by WSDA (the pass-through entity). Repeat Finding No. Auditor's Recommendation The Organization should ensure the employee responsible for conducting a suspension and debarment check is (1) aware of the necessity to document the verification was done and (2) capable of documenting the verification. The Organization should also reevaluate its internal controls over procurements with WSDA funding to ensure that the Organization is receiving approval from the WSDA prior to making the purchase. Employees tasked responsible for making procurement transactions should be educated on the proper procurement procedures. Management should be checking for the WSDA approval prior to signing off on cash disbursements for equipment purchases or equipment repairs.

2024-003 Significant Deficiency in Internal Control and Compliance over Major Programs Funding Agency: Department of Treasury ALN: 21.027 Criteria Per 2 CFR 200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from contracting with parties that are suspended or debarred. 2 CFR 200.318(i) also states that "subrecipients must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection and the basis for the contract price." Condition The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization neglected to document their suspension and debarment verification process for one of four procurement transactions tested. The Organization is also required by the Washington State Department of Agriculture ("WSDA") to receive prior approval for any equipment purchase or equipment repairs over $5,000. One of the four transactions tested did not receive prior approval from WSDA to make the purchase. There was no documentation that could support approval was received from WSDA after the purchase had been made. Cause The Organization claimed the suspension and debarment check occurred prior to entering into the transaction but neglected to retain documentation. The Organization also did not properly follow its procurement policy, nor the policy required by WSDA, requiring prior approval for any equipment purchase or repair over $5,000. Effect Payments may have been made to suspended or debarred vendors and gone undetected by the Organization. The Organization could have also made an equipment purchase or equipment repair that would not be refunded by WSDA (the pass-through entity). Repeat Finding No. Auditor's Recommendation The Organization should ensure the employee responsible for conducting a suspension and debarment check is (1) aware of the necessity to document the verification was done and (2) capable of documenting the verification. The Organization should also reevaluate its internal controls over procurements with WSDA funding to ensure that the Organization is receiving approval from the WSDA prior to making the purchase. Employees tasked responsible for making procurement transactions should be educated on the proper procurement procedures. Management should be checking for the WSDA approval prior to signing off on cash disbursements for equipment purchases or equipment repairs.

Criteria or Specific Requirement – Per 2 CFR §180.300 and §200.214, non-federal entities are prohibited from entering into covered transactions (e.g., contracts or subawards expected to equal or exceed $25,000) with parties that are suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in federal programs. Conditions – Verification of SAMS.gov vendors was not performed. Context – During our testing of procurement, we sampled nine expenditures totaling $367,163. The total population of procurement expenditures charged to the program was $800,000. We noted that all nine selections of expenditures did not have SAMS.gov verification documentation. Cause – The Association did not have a formal process or checklist to ensure that vendors were checked against the SAM.gov exclusion list before contract award. Procurement staff were not trained on this requirement. Effect – Use of non-approved vendors could have occurred. However, as part our audit procedures, we determined that the expenditures were made with contractors which were not suspended or disbarred and were approved on the SAMS.gov website. Recommendation – We recommend the Association implement a formal policy and procedure to verify all vendors against SAM.gov for covered transactions exceeding $25,000. Staff responsible for federal procurement should be trained, and documentation of vendor status verification should be retained with procurement records. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions – Procurement Policy was updated and documentation will be maintained to support vendor verification in the future.

Subject: 2024-002 Material Weakness – Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Noncompliance Federal Agency: Department of the Treasury Federal Program: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Assistance Listing Number: 21.027 Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Finding: Material Weakness – Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Noncompliance Criteria: In accordance with 2 CFR §200.214 and 2 CFR Part 180, the City is required to ensure that it does not enter into a covered transaction with a party that is suspended or debarred. Verification must be performed through one of the following: checking SAM.gov, collecting a certification, or adding a contract clause requiring compliance. Federal Award Findings and Questioned Costs (Continued) Condition and Context: The City lacked a formalized procedure for verifying suspension and debarment status for 1 covered transaction under revenue loss category for the CSLFRF award. This covered transaction paid for additional costs added onto the purchase of a fire engine with a change order related to increased manufacturing costs incurred as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. The City did not verify suspension and debarment on this vendor prior to paying for these costs under CSLFRF. Without proper verification, the City risks using federal funds to engage with ineligible vendors, which could result in questioned costs, repayment obligations to the federal government, or future audit findings that may impact continued federal funding. Although no suspended or debarred vendors were identified in the sampled transactions, the lack of internal controls and documentation constitutes material noncompliance with 2 CFR §200.214. Cause and Effect: The City did not establish formal procedures on suspension and debarment requirements for one of the eleven covered transactions tested, resulting in material noncompliance with the suspension and debarment requirements of the CSLRF program and increased risk of using federal funds with ineligible vendors. Recommendation: We recommend the City develop and implement formal written procedures to ensure suspension and debarment checks are performed on all CSLFRF transactions and documented appropriately. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: The City agrees with the recommendation and plans to implement corrective action by December 31, 2025. Staff are in the process of drafting internal policies for adoption by the appropriate boards to address this item as soon as possible for any of our grant funds not managed by a third-party administrator.

Criteria or Specific Requirements Per 2 CFR 200.214 Suspension and debarment, non-Federal entities are subject to the nonprocurement debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Orders 12549 and 12689, 2 CFR part 180. The regulations in 2 CFR part 180 restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs or activities. Per CFR 180.300, Subpart C: Responsibilities of Participants Regarding Transactions Doing Business With Other Persons, when an entity enters into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, the entity must verify that the person with whom the entity intends to do business is not excluded or disqualified. The entity does this by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person. Per Uniform Guidance Compliance Supplement part 6 – Internal Control, non-federal entities are required to establish and maintain internal control over the federal awards that provides reasonable assurance that the non-federal entity is managing the federal awards in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal awards. Condition We performed testwork over the Foundation’s implementation of the Corrective Action Plan (CAP) for Finding 2023-002. Per the CAP, the Foundation will conduct regular, ongoing monitoring of vendors providing services billed to grantors, including identifying all grant-reimbursed vendors and coordinating with Accounts Payable to perform annual suspension and debarment checks. We noted that the Foundation’s updated formal policies and procedures now require suspension and debarment checks at initial vendor setup and on an annual basis thereafter. Based on test work over a sample of 6 vendors covering the period from September 1, 2024 (CAP implementation date) to December 31, 2024, we did not identify any vendors in the sample who were suspended or debarred. However, we were unable to obtain documentation demonstrating that the Foundation performed the annual vendor suspension and debarment verification checks. Evidence that the annual vendor suspension and debarment verification checks had been performed was not yet available. Questioned Costs None. Cause and Effect For the period from September 1, 2024 (CAP implementation date) to December 31, 2024, the annual vendor suspension and debarment verification checks were still in progress, and supporting documentation was not yet available. The Foundation subsequently completed the annual checks in February 2025, which aligns with the typical start dates of most vendor contracts.