General Controls. The following compliance areas were impacted: Activities Allowed or Unallowed Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Cash Management Equipment and Real Property Management Period of Performance Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Subrecipient Monitoring Special Tests and Provisions – Key Personnel Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Federal Agency: Federal agencies that award Research and Development Cluster funds Assistance Listing Number: Multiple Pass-Through Agency: N/A Award Number: Multiple Award Period: Multiple Statistically Valid Sample: No and not intended to be a statistically valid sample Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No An institution must establish and maintain effective internal control over federal awards that provides reasonable assurance that the institution is managing federal awards in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award (Title 2, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 200.303(a)). The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (Medical Branch) did not appropriately maintain certain systems it uses to manage its federal research and development awards. The Medical Branch asserted that the maintenance was postponed as the institution was evaluating the most effective approach for implementing certain upgrades. Not ensuring that systems are updated and supported increases the risk of data loss or security breaches. After auditors brought the issue to the institution’s attention, the Medical Branch asserted that the appropriate maintenance was obtained. Recommendation: The Medical Branch should ensure that all systems used to manage federal awards are appropriately maintained and supported. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the auditor’s recommendation. Through analysis of the exceptions identified in the audit, the University implemented corrective action to reinstate maintenance and support.
General Controls. The following compliance areas were impacted: Activities Allowed or Unallowed Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Cash Management Equipment and Real Property Management Period of Performance Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Subrecipient Monitoring Special Tests and Provisions – Key Personnel Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Federal Agency: Federal agencies that award Research and Development Cluster funds Assistance Listing Number: Multiple Pass-Through Agency: N/A Award Number: Multiple Award Period: Multiple Statistically Valid Sample: No and not intended to be a statistically valid sample Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No An institution must establish and maintain effective internal control over federal awards that provides reasonable assurance that the institution is managing federal awards in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award (Title 2, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 200.303(a)). The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (Medical Branch) did not appropriately maintain certain systems it uses to manage its federal research and development awards. The Medical Branch asserted that the maintenance was postponed as the institution was evaluating the most effective approach for implementing certain upgrades. Not ensuring that systems are updated and supported increases the risk of data loss or security breaches. After auditors brought the issue to the institution’s attention, the Medical Branch asserted that the appropriate maintenance was obtained. Recommendation: The Medical Branch should ensure that all systems used to manage federal awards are appropriately maintained and supported. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the auditor’s recommendation. Through analysis of the exceptions identified in the audit, the University implemented corrective action to reinstate maintenance and support.
General Controls. The following compliance areas were impacted: Activities Allowed or Unallowed Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Cash Management Equipment and Real Property Management Period of Performance Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Subrecipient Monitoring Special Tests and Provisions – Key Personnel Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Federal Agency: Federal agencies that award Research and Development Cluster funds Assistance Listing Number: Multiple Pass-Through Agency: N/A Award Number: Multiple Award Period: Multiple Statistically Valid Sample: No and not intended to be a statistically valid sample Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No An institution must establish and maintain effective internal control over federal awards that provides reasonable assurance that the institution is managing federal awards in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award (Title 2, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 200.303(a)). The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (Medical Branch) did not appropriately maintain certain systems it uses to manage its federal research and development awards. The Medical Branch asserted that the maintenance was postponed as the institution was evaluating the most effective approach for implementing certain upgrades. Not ensuring that systems are updated and supported increases the risk of data loss or security breaches. After auditors brought the issue to the institution’s attention, the Medical Branch asserted that the appropriate maintenance was obtained. Recommendation: The Medical Branch should ensure that all systems used to manage federal awards are appropriately maintained and supported. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the auditor’s recommendation. Through analysis of the exceptions identified in the audit, the University implemented corrective action to reinstate maintenance and support.
General Controls. The following compliance areas were impacted: Activities Allowed or Unallowed Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Cash Management Equipment and Real Property Management Period of Performance Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Subrecipient Monitoring Special Tests and Provisions – Key Personnel Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Federal Agency: Federal agencies that award Research and Development Cluster funds Assistance Listing Number: Multiple Pass-Through Agency: N/A Award Number: Multiple Award Period: Multiple Statistically Valid Sample: No and not intended to be a statistically valid sample Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No An institution must establish and maintain effective internal control over federal awards that provides reasonable assurance that the institution is managing federal awards in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award (Title 2, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 200.303(a)). The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (Medical Branch) did not appropriately maintain certain systems it uses to manage its federal research and development awards. The Medical Branch asserted that the maintenance was postponed as the institution was evaluating the most effective approach for implementing certain upgrades. Not ensuring that systems are updated and supported increases the risk of data loss or security breaches. After auditors brought the issue to the institution’s attention, the Medical Branch asserted that the appropriate maintenance was obtained. Recommendation: The Medical Branch should ensure that all systems used to manage federal awards are appropriately maintained and supported. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the auditor’s recommendation. Through analysis of the exceptions identified in the audit, the University implemented corrective action to reinstate maintenance and support.
General Controls. The following compliance areas were impacted: Activities Allowed or Unallowed Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Cash Management Equipment and Real Property Management Period of Performance Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Subrecipient Monitoring Special Tests and Provisions – Key Personnel Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Federal Agency: Federal agencies that award Research and Development Cluster funds Assistance Listing Number: Multiple Pass-Through Agency: N/A Award Number: Multiple Award Period: Multiple Statistically Valid Sample: No and not intended to be a statistically valid sample Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No An institution must establish and maintain effective internal control over federal awards that provides reasonable assurance that the institution is managing federal awards in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award (Title 2, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 200.303(a)). The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (Medical Branch) did not appropriately maintain certain systems it uses to manage its federal research and development awards. The Medical Branch asserted that the maintenance was postponed as the institution was evaluating the most effective approach for implementing certain upgrades. Not ensuring that systems are updated and supported increases the risk of data loss or security breaches. After auditors brought the issue to the institution’s attention, the Medical Branch asserted that the appropriate maintenance was obtained. Recommendation: The Medical Branch should ensure that all systems used to manage federal awards are appropriately maintained and supported. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the auditor’s recommendation. Through analysis of the exceptions identified in the audit, the University implemented corrective action to reinstate maintenance and support.
General Controls. The following compliance areas were impacted: Activities Allowed or Unallowed Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Cash Management Equipment and Real Property Management Period of Performance Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Subrecipient Monitoring Special Tests and Provisions – Key Personnel Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Federal Agency: Federal agencies that award Research and Development Cluster funds Assistance Listing Number: Multiple Pass-Through Agency: N/A Award Number: Multiple Award Period: Multiple Statistically Valid Sample: No and not intended to be a statistically valid sample Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No An institution must establish and maintain effective internal control over federal awards that provides reasonable assurance that the institution is managing federal awards in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award (Title 2, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 200.303(a)). The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (Medical Branch) did not appropriately maintain certain systems it uses to manage its federal research and development awards. The Medical Branch asserted that the maintenance was postponed as the institution was evaluating the most effective approach for implementing certain upgrades. Not ensuring that systems are updated and supported increases the risk of data loss or security breaches. After auditors brought the issue to the institution’s attention, the Medical Branch asserted that the appropriate maintenance was obtained. Recommendation: The Medical Branch should ensure that all systems used to manage federal awards are appropriately maintained and supported. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the auditor’s recommendation. Through analysis of the exceptions identified in the audit, the University implemented corrective action to reinstate maintenance and support.
General Controls. The following compliance areas were impacted: Activities Allowed or Unallowed Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Cash Management Equipment and Real Property Management Period of Performance Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Subrecipient Monitoring Special Tests and Provisions – Key Personnel Federal Program Title: Research and Development Cluster Federal Agency: Federal agencies that award Research and Development Cluster funds Assistance Listing Number: Multiple Pass-Through Agency: N/A Award Number: Multiple Award Period: Multiple Statistically Valid Sample: No and not intended to be a statistically valid sample Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No An institution must establish and maintain effective internal control over federal awards that provides reasonable assurance that the institution is managing federal awards in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the federal award (Title 2, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 200.303(a)). The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (Medical Branch) did not appropriately maintain certain systems it uses to manage its federal research and development awards. The Medical Branch asserted that the maintenance was postponed as the institution was evaluating the most effective approach for implementing certain upgrades. Not ensuring that systems are updated and supported increases the risk of data loss or security breaches. After auditors brought the issue to the institution’s attention, the Medical Branch asserted that the appropriate maintenance was obtained. Recommendation: The Medical Branch should ensure that all systems used to manage federal awards are appropriately maintained and supported. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the auditor’s recommendation. Through analysis of the exceptions identified in the audit, the University implemented corrective action to reinstate maintenance and support.
Department of the Health and Human Services Federal Assistance Listing #93.912 Rural Health Care Services Outreach, Rural Health Network Development and Small Health Care Provider Quality Improvement Activities Allowed or Unallowed and Allowable Costs/Cost Principles Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. Condition: BHD, LLC calculated their indirect cost rate based on the total grant budget and claimed an equal amount of indirect costs per month instead of calculating the indirect cost rate per direct expenditures for each month. Cause: BHD, LLC did not have an internal control process in place to ensure the correct amounts of indirect costs were requested based on the direct costs for the same period. Effect: Without an effective internal control process in place, improper costs could be charged to the program. Questioned Costs: None reported. Context: A nonstatistical sample of 4 out of 12 indirect expenditures were selected for testing. Repeat Finding from Prior Years: No Recommendation: We recommend BHD, LLC enhance internal control procedures to ensure the indirect cost rate is applied against the monthly direct costs when requesting program reimbursements. Views of Responsible Officials: Historically, the indirect cost received by this grant has not been dependent of the direct expenditures. Based on verbal conversations with the HRSA grant project manager, requesting reimbursement for the indirect costs evenly over the year based on the budget submitted was acceptable. Therefore, the accounting treatment has been reflective of that.
Inability to provide sufficient supporting documentation of internal controls over certain compliance requirements related to the federal program. Criteria: According to Uniform Guidance (2 CFR § 200.303a), both recipients and subrecipients of federal funding are required to establish, document, and maintain effective internal controls over federal awards. Condition: The Organization lacks a consistent and timely system for documenting internal controls over certain compliance requirements of the federal program. Cause: The federal program was new to the Organization during the year and, as the subrecipient of the federal award, management and program staff relied on the pass-through entity's internal controls and monitoring over compliance. As a result, at the subrecipient level, the Organization failed to consistently document internal controls over certain compliance requirements. Effect: The Organization provided short-term financial assistance for rent to various clients in the year under audit. For multiple payments, the Organization was unable to provide documentation of its internal controls over compliance as it relates to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's rent reasonableness standard (24 CFR 982.507). Recommendation: We recommend that the Organization formally obtain and retain documentation of internal control procedures over compliance requirements for federal programs it administers. Specifically, the Organization should obtain and retain sufficient documentation to demonstrate compliance with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's rent reasonableness standard. Additionally, program staff should be trained on these procedures and a periodic internal review process should be implemented to confirm that documentation meets all Uniform Guidance requirements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the material weakness and related reommendation and will incorporate the aforementioned recommendation into the federal program internal control processes.
2024 – 002 Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program Name: Student Financial Assistance Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 84.063 and 84.268 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: P268K231902, P063P231902, grants were awarded within the 2022-23 and 2023-24 award years. Award Period: September 1, 2023, through August 31, 2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement: The Code of Federal Regulations, 34 CFR 685.309(b) states that: 1) Schools must have some arrangement to report student enrollment data to NSLDS through an enrollment roster file. The school is required to report changes in the student’s enrollment status, the effective date of the status, and an anticipated completion date. Also, the Code of Federal Regulations, 34 CFR 682.610, states that institutions must report accurately the enrollment status of all students regardless if they receive aid from the institution or not. 2.) Schools must have some arrangements to report student program enrollment effective date and status to NSLDS. The Code of Federal Regulations, 2 CFR 200.303, non-Federal entities receiving Federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations and program compliance requirements. Condition and Context: During our testing of NSLDS Enrollment Reporting, we noted that 1.) the incorrect enrollment effective date was reported to NSLDS for 2 out of the 40 students tested. 2.) the incorrect program enrollment effective date was reported to NSLDS for 1 out of the 40 students tested. Questioned Costs: N/A Cause: The College policies and procedures did not ensure that the enrollment effective dates were accurately reported to NSLDS. Effect: 1) The enrollment effective date reported to NSLDS is used to determine when the student’s grace period should begin. By not reporting a correct effective date, the grace period begin date for the student will be incorrect. 2) The program enrollment effective date reported to NSLDS is used to determine the student’s 150%limit for direct loans as well as when grace period should begin. By not reporting the correct status, the calculation of the 150% would be incorrect and the grace period begin date would be incorrect. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: The College should evaluate their procedures and review policies surrounding reporting enrollment effective dates and program enrollment effective dates NSLDS. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
2024 – 002 Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program Name: Student Financial Assistance Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 84.063 and 84.268 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: P268K231902, P063P231902, grants were awarded within the 2022-23 and 2023-24 award years. Award Period: September 1, 2023, through August 31, 2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matters Criteria or Specific Requirement: The Code of Federal Regulations, 34 CFR 685.309(b) states that: 1) Schools must have some arrangement to report student enrollment data to NSLDS through an enrollment roster file. The school is required to report changes in the student’s enrollment status, the effective date of the status, and an anticipated completion date. Also, the Code of Federal Regulations, 34 CFR 682.610, states that institutions must report accurately the enrollment status of all students regardless if they receive aid from the institution or not. 2.) Schools must have some arrangements to report student program enrollment effective date and status to NSLDS. The Code of Federal Regulations, 2 CFR 200.303, non-Federal entities receiving Federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations and program compliance requirements. Condition and Context: During our testing of NSLDS Enrollment Reporting, we noted that 1.) the incorrect enrollment effective date was reported to NSLDS for 2 out of the 40 students tested. 2.) the incorrect program enrollment effective date was reported to NSLDS for 1 out of the 40 students tested. Questioned Costs: N/A Cause: The College policies and procedures did not ensure that the enrollment effective dates were accurately reported to NSLDS. Effect: 1) The enrollment effective date reported to NSLDS is used to determine when the student’s grace period should begin. By not reporting a correct effective date, the grace period begin date for the student will be incorrect. 2) The program enrollment effective date reported to NSLDS is used to determine the student’s 150%limit for direct loans as well as when grace period should begin. By not reporting the correct status, the calculation of the 150% would be incorrect and the grace period begin date would be incorrect. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: The College should evaluate their procedures and review policies surrounding reporting enrollment effective dates and program enrollment effective dates NSLDS. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and has developed a plan to correct the finding.
Finding 2024-001: Cash Management Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Federal Direct Student Loans (ALN 84.268) Award Year: September 1, 2023 to August 31, 2024Criteria or Specific Requirement Per 2 CFR 200.303, a 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. Per 34 CFR 685.300(b)(50), schools participating in the Direct Loan program are required to perform monthly Direct Loan reconciliations. Electronic Announcements DL-22-07 and GENERAL-22-86 explain that a school must reconcile the funds it received from G5 with actual disbursement records the school submitted to Common Origination and Disbursement (COD). Each month, COD sends the school a School Account Statement, which is the Department of Education’s (ED’s) official record of the school’s cash and disbursement records and identifies the difference between the net draws from G5 and the actual disbursement information reported to COD by the school. The school is required to account for any differences by reconciling ED’s records (School Account Statements) with the school’s financial and business records. Condition Found The reconciliation between ED’s records (School Account Statements) and the school’s financial and business records were prepared timely throughout the year; however, the differences identified in the reconciliation were not accounted for and no review or segregation of duties was documented as part of that process. Cause and Possible Asserted Effect The control to ensure that the reconciliation between the ED’s records and the school’s financial and business records was performed and reviewed by an individual separate than that who prepared it and that any differences identified were investigated was not operating effectively. As a result and based on the documentation provided, the monthly reconciliations were not reviewed by an individual separate than that who prepared them and any differences identified during the reconciliation process were not investigated. Questioned Costs None. Whether the Sample Was a Statistically Valid Sample The sample was not intended to be, and was not, a statistically valid sample. Identification of Whether the Audit Finding Was a Repeat Finding in the Immediately Prior Audit Not at repeat finding. Recommendation We recommend that the University strengthen controls over the management review process over the monthly reconciliations between the ED’s records and the school’s financial and business records to ensure there is a segregation of duties in the review and approval process, and any differences within management’s prescribed level of precision are investigated and documented.View of Responsible Officials The finding was primarily caused by an unforeseen staff shortage. This led to one person being the preparer and reviewer with no segregation of duties. Although the differences were identified, they were not documented on the reconciliation form. To resolve this finding, the Office of Financial Aid (OFA) has hired new employees and implemented a new process. The Financial Operations Team is now fully staffed with two senior accountants and one senior director. As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen internal controls and ensure the integrity of our processes, we have implemented a segregation of duties framework. This approach will help us clearly define roles and responsibilities, ensuring that critical tasks are divided among different individuals. By doing so, we will meet compliance requirements, reduce errors, and promote accountability within our office. One senior accountant will prepare the monthly reconciliation by the 10th of the following month. The senior director will review the monthly reconciliation by the 15th of the following month. In the absence of the initial preparer/reviewer, the executive director of OFA will take on the reviewer role. We understand that proper documentation is crucial for clarity, tracking, and future troubleshooting. The differences/discrepancies that are identified in the reconciliation process will be accounted for through proper documentation on the reconciliation form, which will be reviewed/investigated by a second reviewer. The Financial Operations Team within the OFA will continue to create timely and accurate monthly Federal Direct Student Loan reconciliations that compare OPUS (Emory), General Ledger (Emory), Student Account Statement-SAS (U.S. Department of Education), and GS (U.S. Department of Education).
Finding 2024-001: Cash Management Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program: Federal Direct Student Loans (ALN 84.268) Award Year: September 1, 2023 to August 31, 2024Criteria or Specific Requirement Per 2 CFR 200.303, a 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. Per 34 CFR 685.300(b)(50), schools participating in the Direct Loan program are required to perform monthly Direct Loan reconciliations. Electronic Announcements DL-22-07 and GENERAL-22-86 explain that a school must reconcile the funds it received from G5 with actual disbursement records the school submitted to Common Origination and Disbursement (COD). Each month, COD sends the school a School Account Statement, which is the Department of Education’s (ED’s) official record of the school’s cash and disbursement records and identifies the difference between the net draws from G5 and the actual disbursement information reported to COD by the school. The school is required to account for any differences by reconciling ED’s records (School Account Statements) with the school’s financial and business records. Condition Found The reconciliation between ED’s records (School Account Statements) and the school’s financial and business records were prepared timely throughout the year; however, the differences identified in the reconciliation were not accounted for and no review or segregation of duties was documented as part of that process. Cause and Possible Asserted Effect The control to ensure that the reconciliation between the ED’s records and the school’s financial and business records was performed and reviewed by an individual separate than that who prepared it and that any differences identified were investigated was not operating effectively. As a result and based on the documentation provided, the monthly reconciliations were not reviewed by an individual separate than that who prepared them and any differences identified during the reconciliation process were not investigated. Questioned Costs None. Whether the Sample Was a Statistically Valid Sample The sample was not intended to be, and was not, a statistically valid sample. Identification of Whether the Audit Finding Was a Repeat Finding in the Immediately Prior Audit Not at repeat finding. Recommendation We recommend that the University strengthen controls over the management review process over the monthly reconciliations between the ED’s records and the school’s financial and business records to ensure there is a segregation of duties in the review and approval process, and any differences within management’s prescribed level of precision are investigated and documented.View of Responsible Officials The finding was primarily caused by an unforeseen staff shortage. This led to one person being the preparer and reviewer with no segregation of duties. Although the differences were identified, they were not documented on the reconciliation form. To resolve this finding, the Office of Financial Aid (OFA) has hired new employees and implemented a new process. The Financial Operations Team is now fully staffed with two senior accountants and one senior director. As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen internal controls and ensure the integrity of our processes, we have implemented a segregation of duties framework. This approach will help us clearly define roles and responsibilities, ensuring that critical tasks are divided among different individuals. By doing so, we will meet compliance requirements, reduce errors, and promote accountability within our office. One senior accountant will prepare the monthly reconciliation by the 10th of the following month. The senior director will review the monthly reconciliation by the 15th of the following month. In the absence of the initial preparer/reviewer, the executive director of OFA will take on the reviewer role. We understand that proper documentation is crucial for clarity, tracking, and future troubleshooting. The differences/discrepancies that are identified in the reconciliation process will be accounted for through proper documentation on the reconciliation form, which will be reviewed/investigated by a second reviewer. The Financial Operations Team within the OFA will continue to create timely and accurate monthly Federal Direct Student Loan reconciliations that compare OPUS (Emory), General Ledger (Emory), Student Account Statement-SAS (U.S. Department of Education), and GS (U.S. Department of Education).
Approval of Allowable Costs (Significant Deficiency) Federal Award #’s: 10.553, 10.555 Child Nutrition Cluster Federal Award Years: Multiple Federal Agencies: US Department of Agriculture Passthrough Agency: Texas State Department of Agriculture Compliance Requirement: Allowable Costs Criteria: According to 2 CFR 200.303 (a) the recipient of federal awards must establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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). Review and approval controls designed to ensure accuracy and adequate segregation of duties are an essential component of effective internal controls over costs. Condition/Context: During our testing we noted 2 out of 9 nonpayroll costs tested, totaling $79,106, were not separately reviewed and approved by the Department Chair and/or Superintendent. The costs were accurate and supported by invoices. However, the review and approval of the costs by someone other than the person entering the payment was not supported. Cause: The Academy did not effectively implement existing procedures for the separate review and approval of costs. Effect: The absence of proper approval increases the risk of unauthorized or inappropriate expenses being paid, which could result in loss of federal grant funding. Recommendation: The Academy implements procedures to ensure the effective implementation of established controls. We recommend that the Academy reinforce the importance of the expense approval process through additional training for relevant staff and reiterate the importance of segregation of duties in this process.
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-004 Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Level of Effort Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal controls. The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 In one instance, we identified a level of effort report without the proper approval. Cause Recent transition of personnel into a new leadership role contributing to the oversight. Effect Time being charged to the wrong project or funding source, and/or charging time not actually worked or unrelated to the award’s purpose. Additionally, this type of circumstance could result in management override of controls. Questioned Costs None. Recommendation We recommend the University to implement a comprehensive training sessions for employees transitioning into new roles. These sessions should emphasize the importance of completing all pending approvals prior to their transfer. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-004 Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Level of Effort Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal controls. The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 In one instance, we identified a level of effort report without the proper approval. Cause Recent transition of personnel into a new leadership role contributing to the oversight. Effect Time being charged to the wrong project or funding source, and/or charging time not actually worked or unrelated to the award’s purpose. Additionally, this type of circumstance could result in management override of controls. Questioned Costs None. Recommendation We recommend the University to implement a comprehensive training sessions for employees transitioning into new roles. These sessions should emphasize the importance of completing all pending approvals prior to their transfer. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-004 Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Level of Effort Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal controls. The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 In one instance, we identified a level of effort report without the proper approval. Cause Recent transition of personnel into a new leadership role contributing to the oversight. Effect Time being charged to the wrong project or funding source, and/or charging time not actually worked or unrelated to the award’s purpose. Additionally, this type of circumstance could result in management override of controls. Questioned Costs None. Recommendation We recommend the University to implement a comprehensive training sessions for employees transitioning into new roles. These sessions should emphasize the importance of completing all pending approvals prior to their transfer. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-004 Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Level of Effort Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal controls. The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 In one instance, we identified a level of effort report without the proper approval. Cause Recent transition of personnel into a new leadership role contributing to the oversight. Effect Time being charged to the wrong project or funding source, and/or charging time not actually worked or unrelated to the award’s purpose. Additionally, this type of circumstance could result in management override of controls. Questioned Costs None. Recommendation We recommend the University to implement a comprehensive training sessions for employees transitioning into new roles. These sessions should emphasize the importance of completing all pending approvals prior to their transfer. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
Criteria: Under 2 CFR §200.302(b), §200.303, and §200.305, non-federal entities must establish internal controls over federal awards to ensure proper financial management, allowability of costs, timely and accurate reporting, and proper cash management. Additionally, under GAAP (ASC 958-605), grant revenue should be recognized when allowable costs have been incurred. Documentation and supervisory review are necessary to support revenue recognition and ensure expenditures and drawdowns are accurately reported. Condition: The Organization did not document a monthly reconciliation review process to confirm that federal revenues recorded in the general ledger and federal grant drawdowns were supported by allowable costs incurred. Additionally, there was no evidence of review or reconciliation of annual SF-425 Federal Financial Reports to verify that cumulative drawdowns reconciled to allowable costs and recorded revenue. Cause: The Organization lacked a formal internal control process requiring review and sign-off of the reconciliation of grant expenditures, grant revenue, drawdowns, and SF-425 federal financial reporting. Effect: Inadequate internal controls over allowable costs, cash management, and federal financial reporting increased the risk of improper grant revenue recognition recorded, expenditures not being accurately reported, and unallowable costs being claimed, which could lead to misstatements in the financial statements, Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA), and required federal reports, and result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance and GAAP. Questioned Cost: None Recommendation: Implement a documented monthly reconciliation process to verify that federal revenues recorded and drawn down are supported by allowable costs incurred in accordance with grant terms. Include supervisory review of SF-425 reports and supporting schedules to confirm alignment with recorded expenditures and revenues. Reconciliations should be reviewed and signed by the CFO and retained in grant records to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance and GAAP.
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-003 Drawdowns Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Cash management Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid ALN 84.042A Federal Program TRIO Cluster Program ALN 84.425F and 84.425L Federal Program COVID-19 - Education Stabilization Fund Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal Controls The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 The individual reviewing and approving the reimbursements to be requested to the Federal awarding agency is the same person performing the request and drawdown. Cause Lack of segregation of duties between the responsibilities for reviewing and approving reimbursements and those performing the request and drawdown. Effect The University has not implemented internal controls to ensure Federal awards are managed in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards. This noncompliance can lead to financial penalties, resulting in disallowed costs that are not reimbursed by federal funds. Additionally, federal awards could be suspended or terminated, impacting the University's ability to fund its programs and operations. Increased scrutiny in future audits may lead to greater administrative burdens and oversight. In severe cases, the University may face suspension or debarment from receiving future federal funding. Recommendations We recommend that the University ensures compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the awards by assigning another employee within the Administration of Federal & State Funds to handle the drawdown process. The Director should review and approve this process. Additionally, it is important to document the procedures for reimbursement requests and approvals, clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of each individual involved. Views of responsible official Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-004 Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Level of Effort Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal controls. The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 In one instance, we identified a level of effort report without the proper approval. Cause Recent transition of personnel into a new leadership role contributing to the oversight. Effect Time being charged to the wrong project or funding source, and/or charging time not actually worked or unrelated to the award’s purpose. Additionally, this type of circumstance could result in management override of controls. Questioned Costs None. Recommendation We recommend the University to implement a comprehensive training sessions for employees transitioning into new roles. These sessions should emphasize the importance of completing all pending approvals prior to their transfer. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-004 Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Level of Effort Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal controls. The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 In one instance, we identified a level of effort report without the proper approval. Cause Recent transition of personnel into a new leadership role contributing to the oversight. Effect Time being charged to the wrong project or funding source, and/or charging time not actually worked or unrelated to the award’s purpose. Additionally, this type of circumstance could result in management override of controls. Questioned Costs None. Recommendation We recommend the University to implement a comprehensive training sessions for employees transitioning into new roles. These sessions should emphasize the importance of completing all pending approvals prior to their transfer. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-004 Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Level of Effort Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal controls. The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 In one instance, we identified a level of effort report without the proper approval. Cause Recent transition of personnel into a new leadership role contributing to the oversight. Effect Time being charged to the wrong project or funding source, and/or charging time not actually worked or unrelated to the award’s purpose. Additionally, this type of circumstance could result in management override of controls. Questioned Costs None. Recommendation We recommend the University to implement a comprehensive training sessions for employees transitioning into new roles. These sessions should emphasize the importance of completing all pending approvals prior to their transfer. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
2024-004 Segregation of Duties Compliance Requirement Level of Effort Finding Type Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls Federal Agency US Department of Education ALN 84.031 Federal Program Higher Education Institutional Aid Criteria 2 CFR § 200.303, Internal controls. The recipient and subrecipient must: (a) Establish, document, and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the recipient or subrecipient is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should align with the 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 In one instance, we identified a level of effort report without the proper approval. Cause Recent transition of personnel into a new leadership role contributing to the oversight. Effect Time being charged to the wrong project or funding source, and/or charging time not actually worked or unrelated to the award’s purpose. Additionally, this type of circumstance could result in management override of controls. Questioned Costs None. Recommendation We recommend the University to implement a comprehensive training sessions for employees transitioning into new roles. These sessions should emphasize the importance of completing all pending approvals prior to their transfer. Views of Responsible Officials Refer to Corrective Action Plan (Unaudited)
Criteria: Under 2 CFR §200.302(b), §200.303, and §200.305, non-federal entities must establish internal controls over federal awards to ensure proper financial management, allowability of costs, timely and accurate reporting, and proper cash management. Additionally, under GAAP (ASC 958-605), grant revenue should be recognized when allowable costs have been incurred. Documentation and supervisory review are necessary to support revenue recognition and ensure expenditures and drawdowns are accurately reported. Condition: The Organization did not document a monthly reconciliation review process to confirm that federal revenues recorded in the general ledger and federal grant drawdowns were supported by allowable costs incurred. Additionally, there was no evidence of review or reconciliation of annual SF-425 Federal Financial Reports to verify that cumulative drawdowns reconciled to allowable costs and recorded revenue. Cause: The Organization lacked a formal internal control process requiring review and sign-off of the reconciliation of grant expenditures, grant revenue, drawdowns, and SF-425 federal financial reporting. Effect: Inadequate internal controls over allowable costs, cash management, and federal financial reporting increased the risk of improper grant revenue recognition recorded, expenditures not being accurately reported, and unallowable costs being claimed, which could lead to misstatements in the financial statements, Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA), and required federal reports, and result in noncompliance with Uniform Guidance and GAAP. Questioned Cost: None Recommendation: Implement a documented monthly reconciliation process to verify that federal revenues recorded and drawn down are supported by allowable costs incurred in accordance with grant terms. Include supervisory review of SF-425 reports and supporting schedules to confirm alignment with recorded expenditures and revenues. Reconciliations should be reviewed and signed by the CFO and retained in grant records to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance and GAAP.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development #14.251 Economic Development Initiative, Community Project Funding, and Miscellaneous Grants 2024-004 Lack of Documented Approval (Significant Deficiency) Criteria: Per 2 CFR §200.303, the entity must establish and maintain effective internal controls over federal awards that provide reasonable assurance that the entity is managing the award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the award. Adequate documentation of approvals is a fundamental internal control to ensure expenditures are necessary, allowable, and properly authorized. Condition: During our testing of expenditures charged to the Community Project Funding funded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, we noted that the Organization did not maintain documented evidence of management approval prior to incurring or paying costs. The transactions reviewed lacked documented authorizations, supervisor sign-offs, or other documentation showing formal approval. Cause: The lack of documented approval appears to be due to inconsistent application of internal controls and the absence of a standardized process for documenting expenditure authorization for federal programs. Effect: Without documented approval, there is an increased risk that unallowable or unauthorized expenditures could be charged to the federal award. It also weakens the audit trail and compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements. Questioned Costs: None noted. Recommendation: We recommend the Organization implement and enforce a formal process requiring documented pre-approval of all expenditures charged to federal programs. This may include standardized approval forms or electronic workflows that clearly demonstrate appropriate review and authorization prior to payment. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees documentation must demonstrate proper approval. Corrective Action: Utilize standard purchase authorization and maintain approval documentation with supporting invoices/receipts.
Finding No. 2024-003 – Documentation of Internal Controls over Compliance Material Weakness Federal Program – Student Financial Aid Cluster – Federal Direct Student Loans (ALN 84.268), U.S. Department of Education Criteria – Auditee requirements contained in Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, Subpart D – Post Federal Award Requirements, Section 200.303 – Internal Controls, requires the auditee to 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 a framework such as the “Internal Control Integrated Framework,” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Condition – We noted that controls identified by management over material compliance requirements lacked sufficient documentation to conclude application of controls is in place. Cause – The cause is due to ineffective internal control procedures with no physical indication of review or an audit trail that indicates that the identified control took place. Effect – Ineffective internal control procedures resulted in compliance findings. See Finding No. 2024-002. Reportable Questioned Costs: None Context – Internal controls in place over material compliance requirements identified by management had no documentation in place to demonstrate application of controls. Repeat Finding – This is a repeat finding of 2023-003. Recommendation – We recommend the Institute ensures all internal control procedures in place include documentation that demonstrates application of controls. Views of Responsible Officials – Management agrees with the finding. See Corrective Action Plan.
2024-003 United States Department Agriculture Federal Financial Assistance Listing #10.766 Community Facilities Loans and Grant Special Tests and Provisions Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance Criteria – 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over the federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal award. Condition – During our testing, there was no formal review separate from the preparer over the reserve fund reconciliation for the federal program and there was no formal review of the balance in comparison to the required minimum reserve balance. Cause – The Health Center did not have an adequate internal control policy in place to ensure review and approval over the amount of the reserve fund. Effect – The lack of adequate policies governing review increases the risk that employees participating in the federal award administration may not be able to detect and correct noncompliance in a timely manner. Questioned Costs – None reported. Context – Sampling was not used. The Health Center has one reserve account, which includes the debt service and emergency and replacement reserve, that was tested. Repeat Finding from Prior Years – Yes, Finding 2023-004 Recommendation – We recommend that the Health Center enhance internal control policies to ensure that a formal review over the reserve fund reconciliation and a formal review of the balance in comparison to the required minimum reserve balance be completed by staff separate from the preparer. Views of Responsible Officials – Management agrees with the finding.
Program - AL 21.027 - COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Suspension & Debarment Grant Number & Year - SLFRP1468; March 3, 2021, through December 31, 2024 Federal Grantor Agency - U.S. Department of the Treasury Criteria - Title 2 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 200.303 (January 1, 2024) states the following, in relevant 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). The U.S. Department of the Treasury adopted the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR § 1000.10 (January 1, 2024), which states the following: Except for the deviations set forth elsewhere in this Part, the Department of the Treasury adopts the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, set forth at 2 CFR part 200. 2 CFR § 200.214 (January 1, 2024) states the following: 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. 2 CFR § 180.300 (January 1, 2024) requires non-Federal entities to verify that an entity is not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into a covered transaction by: “(a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that . . . [entity]; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that . . . [entity].” A good internal control plan requires the County to have proper procedures in place to verify that vendors paid with Federal funds are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities. Condition - The County could not provide documentation to support that the County implementedeffective internal controls to ensure that suspension and debarment requirements were followed and adequately documented. We noted the County used Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to pay two vendors over $25,000, totaling $548,036 during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. The County failed to ensure that these vendors were not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into these covered transactions. We reviewed sam.gov and noted that none of these vendors were suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs or activities as of the date testing was performed. Repeat Finding - No Questioned Costs - None Statistical Sample - No Context - The following table provides details of the covered transactions noted: Cause - Lack of procedures and knowledge regarding suspension and debarment requirements. Effect - Without adequate procedures to ensure vendors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, there is an increased risk for the misuse of Federal funds and noncompliance with Federal regulations, leading to possible Federal sanctions. Recommendation - We recommend the County implement procedures to ensure, prior to entering into acovered transaction, that a vendor is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded fromor ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, and those procedures areadequately documented. View of Officials - The County will implement procedures to ensure when a contractor is paid with federal funds, sam.gov will be utilized to verify the entity has not been suspended or debarred and such procedure will be adequately documented.
Finding 2024-001: Untimely and Inaccurate Enrollment Reporting Compliance Requirement: Special Tests & Provisions: Enrollment Reporting Type: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance; Material Noncompliance Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education AL Numbers and Titles: 84.063 and 84.268 – Student Financial Aid Cluster Grant Award Period: July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024 Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Additionally, 34 CFR 682.610, states that institutions must report accurately the enrollment status of all students regardless of if they receive aid from the institution or not. Changes to said status are required to be reported within 30 days of becoming aware of the status change, or with the next scheduled transmission of statuses if the scheduled transmission is within 60 days. Condition: During our testing of 12 students, we identified 9 students for which the student's enrollment status was not reported timely to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) and 8 students whose graduation status was not accurately reported to the NSLDS. Cause: During the year, the University submitted its listing of individuals who graduated to Clearinghouse to upload to NSLDS. However, the University did not review the listing of exceptions from Clearinghouse related to the students whose status changes were not uploaded to NSLDS, which caused the enrollment changes for students who graduated to not be reported in accordance with federal requirements. This caused students to not be reported to NSLDS until the audit.Effect: The University was not in compliance with the requirements to properly report student enrollment data correctly. Incorrect dates submitted to NSLDS may be used to determine the grace period for the repayment and interest of outstanding Title IV student loans. Recommendation: We recommend the University review current processes for reporting to NSLDS and implement procedures to ensure submissions are reported timely and accurately. Views of Responsible Officials Corrective Actions: The University agrees with this finding. Please refer to the Corrective Action Plan.
Finding 2024-001: Untimely and Inaccurate Enrollment Reporting Compliance Requirement: Special Tests & Provisions: Enrollment Reporting Type: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance; Material Noncompliance Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education AL Numbers and Titles: 84.063 and 84.268 – Student Financial Aid Cluster Grant Award Period: July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024 Questioned Costs: None Repeat Finding: No Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Additionally, 34 CFR 682.610, states that institutions must report accurately the enrollment status of all students regardless of if they receive aid from the institution or not. Changes to said status are required to be reported within 30 days of becoming aware of the status change, or with the next scheduled transmission of statuses if the scheduled transmission is within 60 days. Condition: During our testing of 12 students, we identified 9 students for which the student's enrollment status was not reported timely to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) and 8 students whose graduation status was not accurately reported to the NSLDS. Cause: During the year, the University submitted its listing of individuals who graduated to Clearinghouse to upload to NSLDS. However, the University did not review the listing of exceptions from Clearinghouse related to the students whose status changes were not uploaded to NSLDS, which caused the enrollment changes for students who graduated to not be reported in accordance with federal requirements. This caused students to not be reported to NSLDS until the audit.Effect: The University was not in compliance with the requirements to properly report student enrollment data correctly. Incorrect dates submitted to NSLDS may be used to determine the grace period for the repayment and interest of outstanding Title IV student loans. Recommendation: We recommend the University review current processes for reporting to NSLDS and implement procedures to ensure submissions are reported timely and accurately. Views of Responsible Officials Corrective Actions: The University agrees with this finding. Please refer to the Corrective Action Plan.
2024-003 Department of Agriculture Federal Assistance Listing #10.766 Community Facilities Loans and Grants Cluster Special Tests and Provisions Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Criteria - 2 CFR 200.303(a) establishes that the auditee must establish and maintain effective internal control over federal award that provides assurance that the entity is managing the federal award in compliance with federal statutes, regulations, and conditions of the federal awards. Condition - During our testing, there was no formal review separate from the preparer over the reserve fund reconciliations for the federal program. Cause - The Home did not have an adequate internal control policy in place to ensure review and approval over the reserve fund reconciliations. Effect - The lack of adequate policies governing review increases the risk that employees participating in the federal award administration may not be able to detect and correct noncompliance in a timely manner. Questioned Costs - None reported. Context/Sampling - Sampling was not used. The Home has two required reserve fund requirements that were tested. Repeat Finding from Prior Years - Yes - 2023-004 Recommendation - We recommend that the Home enhance internal control policies to ensure that formal documentation of reviews is present. Views of Responsible Officials - Management agrees with the finding.
Finding # 2024-002 Program: AL 21.027 – COVID-19 – Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Suspension & Debarment Grant Number & Year: SLFRP0847, March 3, 2021, through December 31, 2024 Federal Grantor Agency: U.S. Department of the Treasury Criteria: Title 2 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 200.303 (January 1, 2024) states the following, in relevant 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 § 200.214 (January 1, 2024) states the following: 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. The U.S. Department of the Treasury adopted the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR § 1000.10 (January 1, 2024), which states the following: Except for the deviations set forth elsewhere in this Part, the Department of the Treasury adopts the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, set forth at 2 CFR part 200. 2 CFR § 180.300 (January 1, 2024) requires non-Federal entities to verify that an entity is not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into a covered transaction by “(a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that . . . [entity]; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that . . . [entity].” A good internal control plan requires the County to have proper procedures in place to verify that contractors paid with Federal funds are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, and those procedures are adequately documented. Condition: Dawson County could not provide documentation to support that the County implemented effective internal controls to ensure that suspension and debarment requirements were followed and adequately documented. We noted the County used Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to pay 12 vendors over $25,000 each, totaling $2,875,367, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. The County was unable to support that a review was performed to ensure that these vendors were not excluded or disqualified prior to entering into these covered transactions. We reviewed SAM.gov, and noted that none of these vendors were suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in Federal programs or activities as of the date testing was performed. Repeat Finding: 2023-002 Questioned Costs: None Statistical Sample: No Context: The following table provides details of the covered transactions noted: Cause: Lack of procedures and knowledge regarding suspension and debarment requirements; long-time County Clerk retired during the fiscal year. Effect: Without adequate procedures to ensure contractors are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, there is an increased risk for the misuse of Federal funds and noncompliance with Federal regulations, leading to possible Federal sanctions. Recommendation: We recommend the County implement procedures to ensure, prior to entering into a covered transaction, that a contractor is not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities, and those procedures are adequately documented. View of Officials: The County has procedures in place; when a contractor is hired, sam.gov will be utilized to verify the entity has not been suspended or debarred.