Finding 2024-004, Significant deficiency Identification of federal program: US DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE passed through the Indiana Department of Education Child Nutrition Cluster 10.553 & 10.555 Criteria : According to 2CFR 200.318(i) the recipient or subrecipient must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition : The School did not maintain records for a food vendor that met the simplified acquisition threshold for the year. Cause : The Schools procurement policies do not address the frequency of which vendors should be evaluated. In addition, the policies also do not address records retention. Potential effect: The procurement may not have been proper under the grant requirements. Questioned costs: None. Context: A total sample of four (4) of ten (10) purchases related to a certain food provider were selected as a part of procurement and suspension and debarment compliance requirement testing for the Child Nutrition Cluster. Recommendation : We recommend that the School follow federal procurement guidelines for each of the different purchase thresholds for each vendor. We further recommend that the School retain any documentation created related to the procurement selection and vetting process. Views of Responsible Officials: See attached Corrective Action Plan.
Finding 2024-004, Significant deficiency Identification of federal program: US DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE passed through the Indiana Department of Education Child Nutrition Cluster 10.553 & 10.555 Criteria : According to 2CFR 200.318(i) the recipient or subrecipient must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition : The School did not maintain records for a food vendor that met the simplified acquisition threshold for the year. Cause : The Schools procurement policies do not address the frequency of which vendors should be evaluated. In addition, the policies also do not address records retention. Potential effect: The procurement may not have been proper under the grant requirements. Questioned costs: None. Context: A total sample of four (4) of ten (10) purchases related to a certain food provider were selected as a part of procurement and suspension and debarment compliance requirement testing for the Child Nutrition Cluster. Recommendation : We recommend that the School follow federal procurement guidelines for each of the different purchase thresholds for each vendor. We further recommend that the School retain any documentation created related to the procurement selection and vetting process. Views of Responsible Officials: See attached Corrective Action Plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: None Provided Pass-Through Agency: Maryland Department of Education (MSDE) Pass-Through Number(s): None Provided Award Period: 7/1/2023–6/30/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Compliance: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.327. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR section 200.320(b)). Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), 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. These internal controls should comply 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/Context: During the testing of ten contracts, the Board was unable to provide documentation for one contract to demonstrate compliance with their procurement policy, specifically the requirement to obtain two quotes for a small purchase. Questioned costs: Undetermined. Cause: Controls were not operating effectively to ensure that the Board’s procurement policies were followed for contracts entered into where expenses were charged to the federal program. Effect: There is an increased risk of charging unallowed costs to the program. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the Board enhance controls and procedures to ensure that it follows its procurement policies for all goods and services charged to the program. Documentation should be readily available for audit. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: None Provided Pass-Through Agency: Maryland Department of Education (MSDE) Pass-Through Number(s): None Provided Award Period: 7/1/2023–6/30/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Compliance: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.327. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR section 200.320(b)). Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), 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. These internal controls should comply 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/Context: During the testing of ten contracts, the Board was unable to provide documentation for one contract to demonstrate compliance with their procurement policy, specifically the requirement to obtain two quotes for a small purchase. Questioned costs: Undetermined. Cause: Controls were not operating effectively to ensure that the Board’s procurement policies were followed for contracts entered into where expenses were charged to the federal program. Effect: There is an increased risk of charging unallowed costs to the program. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the Board enhance controls and procedures to ensure that it follows its procurement policies for all goods and services charged to the program. Documentation should be readily available for audit. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: None Provided Pass-Through Agency: Maryland Department of Education (MSDE) Pass-Through Number(s): None Provided Award Period: 7/1/2023–6/30/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Compliance: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.327. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR section 200.320(b)). Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), 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. These internal controls should comply 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/Context: During the testing of ten contracts, the Board was unable to provide documentation for one contract to demonstrate compliance with their procurement policy, specifically the requirement to obtain two quotes for a small purchase. Questioned costs: Undetermined. Cause: Controls were not operating effectively to ensure that the Board’s procurement policies were followed for contracts entered into where expenses were charged to the federal program. Effect: There is an increased risk of charging unallowed costs to the program. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the Board enhance controls and procedures to ensure that it follows its procurement policies for all goods and services charged to the program. Documentation should be readily available for audit. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: None Provided Pass-Through Agency: Maryland Department of Education (MSDE) Pass-Through Number(s): None Provided Award Period: 7/1/2023–6/30/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Compliance: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.327. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR section 200.320(b)). Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), 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. These internal controls should comply 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/Context: During the testing of ten contracts, the Board was unable to provide documentation for one contract to demonstrate compliance with their procurement policy, specifically the requirement to obtain two quotes for a small purchase. Questioned costs: Undetermined. Cause: Controls were not operating effectively to ensure that the Board’s procurement policies were followed for contracts entered into where expenses were charged to the federal program. Effect: There is an increased risk of charging unallowed costs to the program. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the Board enhance controls and procedures to ensure that it follows its procurement policies for all goods and services charged to the program. Documentation should be readily available for audit. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: None Provided Pass-Through Agency: Maryland Department of Education (MSDE) Pass-Through Number(s): None Provided Award Period: 7/1/2023–6/30/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Compliance: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.327. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR section 200.320(b)). Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), 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. These internal controls should comply 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/Context: During the testing of ten contracts, the Board was unable to provide documentation for one contract to demonstrate compliance with their procurement policy, specifically the requirement to obtain two quotes for a small purchase. Questioned costs: Undetermined. Cause: Controls were not operating effectively to ensure that the Board’s procurement policies were followed for contracts entered into where expenses were charged to the federal program. Effect: There is an increased risk of charging unallowed costs to the program. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the Board enhance controls and procedures to ensure that it follows its procurement policies for all goods and services charged to the program. Documentation should be readily available for audit. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: None Provided Pass-Through Agency: Maryland Department of Education (MSDE) Pass-Through Number(s): None Provided Award Period: 7/1/2023–6/30/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Compliance: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.327. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR section 200.320(b)). Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), 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. These internal controls should comply 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/Context: During the testing of ten contracts, the Board was unable to provide documentation for one contract to demonstrate compliance with their procurement policy, specifically the requirement to obtain two quotes for a small purchase. Questioned costs: Undetermined. Cause: Controls were not operating effectively to ensure that the Board’s procurement policies were followed for contracts entered into where expenses were charged to the federal program. Effect: There is an increased risk of charging unallowed costs to the program. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the Board enhance controls and procedures to ensure that it follows its procurement policies for all goods and services charged to the program. Documentation should be readily available for audit. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture Federal Program Name: Child Nutrition Cluster Assistance Listing Numbers: 10.553, 10.555, 10.559, 10.582 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: None Provided Pass-Through Agency: Maryland Department of Education (MSDE) Pass-Through Number(s): None Provided Award Period: 7/1/2023–6/30/2024 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Compliance: Non-federal entities other than states, including those operating federal programs as subrecipients of states, must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR sections 200.318 through 200.327. They must use their own documented procurement procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR Part 200. Small purchase procedures are used for purchases that exceed the micro-purchase amount but do not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000). If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources (2 CFR section 200.320(b)). Control: Per 2 CFR section 200.303(a), 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. These internal controls should comply 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/Context: During the testing of ten contracts, the Board was unable to provide documentation for one contract to demonstrate compliance with their procurement policy, specifically the requirement to obtain two quotes for a small purchase. Questioned costs: Undetermined. Cause: Controls were not operating effectively to ensure that the Board’s procurement policies were followed for contracts entered into where expenses were charged to the federal program. Effect: There is an increased risk of charging unallowed costs to the program. Repeat Finding: No. Recommendation: We recommend that the Board enhance controls and procedures to ensure that it follows its procurement policies for all goods and services charged to the program. Documentation should be readily available for audit. Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
Procurement Suspension & Debarment Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance Research and Development Cluster Criteria: Non-federal entities other than states must follow the procurement standards set out at 2 CFR 200.318 through 200.326. They must use their own documented procedures, which reflect applicable state and local laws and regulations, provided that the procurement standards conform to the applicable federal statutes and the procurement requirements identified in 2 CFR part 200. Condition: The Organization has a procurement policy in place; however, the Organization is not consistently following the procurement policy. During the period of the contracts with these provisions, the Organization did not have a control structure in place to monitor compliance with procurement requirements. Consequently, for one (1) of six (2) contracts tested, the procurement policy was not followed and no documentation to reflect compliance with Uniform Guidance requirements related to procurement could be provided. Cause: The procurement policy retained by the Organization has not been updated to conform with the Organization’s current operations. Effect or potential effect: The Organization could become noncompliant with the requirements of the Uniform Guidance, resulting in future findings and questioned costs related to dollar amounts being expended to vendors. Additionally, the Organization could become ineligible to receive funds from federal entities or may have to issue refunds to federal entities. Questioned costs: None. Context: Our sample was not intended to be statistically valid. Recommendation: The Organization updated its procurement policy to reflect current operations, but did not go back and document procurement compliance against existing vendors. The Organization should review the current procurement operations in conjunction with the review of the procurement policies to ensure that all practices and policies conform to the standards promulgated by the CFR. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective actions: Management's response is reported in "Management's Views and Corrective Action Plan" included at the end of this report. Identification of prior year finding: 2023-005
FINDING 2024-002 Information on the federal program: Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 22-23, FY 23-24 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Finding: Material Weakness Criteria: 2 CFR 200.318 states: “The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 200.317 through 200.327.” and 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure compliance with requirements related to the Child Nutrition Cluster and Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirements. Cause: The School Corporation’s management had not developed a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement vendors utilized and not procured by the School Corporation’s purchasing cooperative. Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system could place the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the federal program and applicable federal/state procurement regulations. Not adhering to the School Corporation’s procurement policy designed to follow federal and state regulations, could result in the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds by conducting business with vendors not properly procured and verified to not be suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: There we no questioned costs identified. Context: Procurement The School Corporation participates in the Food2School Child Nutrition Cooperative which procures vendors for food purchases and other supplies on behalf of its members. During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased supplies and equipment from vendors not procured by the Cooperative. One vendor with aggregate annual purchases of $118,390 and $68,859 for fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2024, respectively, exceeded the small purchase threshold ($50,000 - $150,000) and was not subject to the School Corporation’s procurement policy to solicit multiple quotes and to document the method and rationale for procurement. Suspension and Debarment For three vendors tested which were not procured by the Cooperative and had aggregate annual disbursements exceeding the federal suspension and debarment threshold of $25,000, the School Corporation did not perform suspension and debarment checks to confirm the vendors were not suspended or debarred before entering into the contract or disbursing federal funds. Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: Yes, see Finding 2022-002 and Finding 2022-003. Recommendation: We recommend the School Corporation implement an internal control to monitor purchases within the Food Service Department with vendors that exceed the small purchase dollar threshold, either individually or in annual aggregation, to ensure the School Corporation’s procurement policy is followed which includes soliciting competitive quotes for transactions within $50,000 - $150,000 and also ensure multiple purchases throughout the year are equitably spilt among all qualifying vendors. We also recommend that the School Corporation implement an internal control process to monitor aggregate vendor disbursements in Fund 800, School Lunch, on annual basis and perform suspension and debarment checks for all vendors exceeding $25,000 in aggregate disbursements on an annual basis to ensure compliance with federal suspension and debarment regulations. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-002 Information on the federal program: Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 22-23, FY 23-24 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Finding: Material Weakness Criteria: 2 CFR 200.318 states: “The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 200.317 through 200.327.” and 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure compliance with requirements related to the Child Nutrition Cluster and Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirements. Cause: The School Corporation’s management had not developed a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement vendors utilized and not procured by the School Corporation’s purchasing cooperative. Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system could place the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the federal program and applicable federal/state procurement regulations. Not adhering to the School Corporation’s procurement policy designed to follow federal and state regulations, could result in the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds by conducting business with vendors not properly procured and verified to not be suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: There we no questioned costs identified. Context: Procurement The School Corporation participates in the Food2School Child Nutrition Cooperative which procures vendors for food purchases and other supplies on behalf of its members. During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased supplies and equipment from vendors not procured by the Cooperative. One vendor with aggregate annual purchases of $118,390 and $68,859 for fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2024, respectively, exceeded the small purchase threshold ($50,000 - $150,000) and was not subject to the School Corporation’s procurement policy to solicit multiple quotes and to document the method and rationale for procurement. Suspension and Debarment For three vendors tested which were not procured by the Cooperative and had aggregate annual disbursements exceeding the federal suspension and debarment threshold of $25,000, the School Corporation did not perform suspension and debarment checks to confirm the vendors were not suspended or debarred before entering into the contract or disbursing federal funds. Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: Yes, see Finding 2022-002 and Finding 2022-003. Recommendation: We recommend the School Corporation implement an internal control to monitor purchases within the Food Service Department with vendors that exceed the small purchase dollar threshold, either individually or in annual aggregation, to ensure the School Corporation’s procurement policy is followed which includes soliciting competitive quotes for transactions within $50,000 - $150,000 and also ensure multiple purchases throughout the year are equitably spilt among all qualifying vendors. We also recommend that the School Corporation implement an internal control process to monitor aggregate vendor disbursements in Fund 800, School Lunch, on annual basis and perform suspension and debarment checks for all vendors exceeding $25,000 in aggregate disbursements on an annual basis to ensure compliance with federal suspension and debarment regulations. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
FINDING 2024-002 Information on the federal program: Subject: Child Nutrition Cluster - Internal Controls Federal Agency: Department of Agriculture Federal Program: School Breakfast Program, National School Lunch Program Assistance Listing Number: 10.553, 10.555 Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): FY 22-23, FY 23-24 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Finding: Material Weakness Criteria: 2 CFR 200.318 states: “The Non-Federal entity must have and use documented procurement procedures, consistent with State, local, and tribal laws and regulations and the standards of this section, for the acquisition of property or services required under a Federal award or subaward. The non-Federal entity's documented procurement procedures must conform to the procurement standards identified in 200.317 through 200.327.” and 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking the SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure compliance with requirements related to the Child Nutrition Cluster and Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirements. Cause: The School Corporation’s management had not developed a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement vendors utilized and not procured by the School Corporation’s purchasing cooperative. Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system could place the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the federal program and applicable federal/state procurement regulations. Not adhering to the School Corporation’s procurement policy designed to follow federal and state regulations, could result in the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds by conducting business with vendors not properly procured and verified to not be suspended or debarred. Questioned Costs: There we no questioned costs identified. Context: Procurement The School Corporation participates in the Food2School Child Nutrition Cooperative which procures vendors for food purchases and other supplies on behalf of its members. During the audit period, the School Corporation purchased supplies and equipment from vendors not procured by the Cooperative. One vendor with aggregate annual purchases of $118,390 and $68,859 for fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2024, respectively, exceeded the small purchase threshold ($50,000 - $150,000) and was not subject to the School Corporation’s procurement policy to solicit multiple quotes and to document the method and rationale for procurement. Suspension and Debarment For three vendors tested which were not procured by the Cooperative and had aggregate annual disbursements exceeding the federal suspension and debarment threshold of $25,000, the School Corporation did not perform suspension and debarment checks to confirm the vendors were not suspended or debarred before entering into the contract or disbursing federal funds. Identification as a repeat finding, if applicable: Yes, see Finding 2022-002 and Finding 2022-003. Recommendation: We recommend the School Corporation implement an internal control to monitor purchases within the Food Service Department with vendors that exceed the small purchase dollar threshold, either individually or in annual aggregation, to ensure the School Corporation’s procurement policy is followed which includes soliciting competitive quotes for transactions within $50,000 - $150,000 and also ensure multiple purchases throughout the year are equitably spilt among all qualifying vendors. We also recommend that the School Corporation implement an internal control process to monitor aggregate vendor disbursements in Fund 800, School Lunch, on annual basis and perform suspension and debarment checks for all vendors exceeding $25,000 in aggregate disbursements on an annual basis to ensure compliance with federal suspension and debarment regulations. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that Organization have written procurement policies in place that comply with 2 CFR Sections 200.318 – 300.327 when procurement is applicable to a federal program. According to the compliance requirements matrix, procurement is applicable to ALN #21.027. Condition: While testing the procurement compliance requirement, we found that management had not adopted the required policies contained in 2 CFR Sections 200.318 – 300.327. We did not, however, find any evidence of material noncompliance related to this requirement. Cause: Management does not regularly expend federal dollars above the threshold requiring a Single Audit under the Uniform Guidance. As such, policies related to procurement were not adopted. Effect: Internal controls surrounding Uniform Guidance are incomplete. Recommendation: Management should review 2 CFR Sections 200.138 – 300.327 and develop written policies that comply with the compliance requirements. Questioned Costs: None Management’s Response: Management will review their current procurement policies and make any necessary changes to update the policies to be compliant with 2 CFR Sections 200.138 – 300.327.
Finding 2024-001: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through agency: Pennsylvania Department of Education Assistance Listing Number: 84.425 Education Stabilization Fund; 84.027 IDEA Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with laws and regulations and the standards for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award or subaward in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement and adherence to related compliance requirements. Records should include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR 200.318(i) Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply 2 CFR 200.320(c): The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold: The item is available only from a single source; The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. adequately document costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200.403(g). The Non-Federal entity must perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold including contract modifications. The method and degree of analysis is dependent on the facts surrounding the particular procurement situation, but as a starting point, the non-Federal entity must make independent estimates before receiving bids or proposals. 2 CFR 200.324(a). Per PDE and Pennsylvania Bulletin, the Entity must perform a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Condition: The District did not follow the appropriate procedures to comply with Uniform Grant Guidance. During our audits and PDE’s monitoring review completed in fiscal year 2023-2024, the ESSER Monitoring Team and we noted the following Procurement Findings: The School District was unable to provide purchase orders for several services purchased with Federal funds. The School District did not document its rationale for noncompetitive procurement. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Procurement files for 2 vendors, which exceed $10,000 but not $22,500 for goods and $10,000 but not $250,000 for services, did not have the accompanying three price or rate quotations. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Vendor contracts did not contain the necessary contract provisions The ESSER Monitoring Team was unable to obtain and review sufficient documentation to verify that the procurement was competitively performed for 1 vendor, such as proof of advertisement, request for proposal, bid evaluation, and award letter for procurement of the following vendor Context: During testing, it was noted that the District had entered into a lease agreement in 2017 to acquire computer equipment. The equipment was acquired through COSTARS, a cooperative purchasing program. While purchases through COSTARS meet the cooperative purchase requirement for local government purchasing under 62 Pa.C.S. section 1902, they do not meet the more stringent requirements of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Subsequently, the District decided to budget for and pay for this lease agreement in the 2021-2022 school year under the Education Stabilization Fund. In using federal funds to pay for the lease agreement, the District inadvertently did not follow its procurement policy. While the school district developed a plan to correct these procedures, it was not fully implemented until the 2023-2024 school year. Cause: Non-compliance with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. Effect: The District did not follow its procurement policy and ultimately did not comply with the standards of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Questioned Cost: None Identification of Repeat Finding: Yes Recommendation: The District must implement procedures to fully comply with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. View of Responsible Officials: The District will require all payments to have either a purchase order or request for payment form completed. The Accounts Payable Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the form is signed for all disbursements. For the particular item cited by our monitors the Superintendent and Business Manager signed off on the invoice instead of a request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager discussed with the Accounts Payable Coordinator that going forward this is insufficient. All payments must have either a purchase order or request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager reviews backup documentation for check disbursements. During their review if any payments are discovered to be missing a purchase order or request for payment form, he will notify the Accounts Payable Coordinator to complete the form. This is effective immediately. The District has also reviewed the applicable Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements and has developed an electronic procurement process that all staff member making the purchase with federal funds, must complete a form prior to the procurement being made. Then the Business Manager approves the form. There is a box to check if the procurement is a sole source. If this is checked the Business Manager will require justification. This process was presented by the Business Office to Leadership Personnel on 5/9/24 and is effective now.
Finding 2024-001: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through agency: Pennsylvania Department of Education Assistance Listing Number: 84.425 Education Stabilization Fund; 84.027 IDEA Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with laws and regulations and the standards for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award or subaward in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement and adherence to related compliance requirements. Records should include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR 200.318(i) Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply 2 CFR 200.320(c): The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold: The item is available only from a single source; The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. adequately document costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200.403(g). The Non-Federal entity must perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold including contract modifications. The method and degree of analysis is dependent on the facts surrounding the particular procurement situation, but as a starting point, the non-Federal entity must make independent estimates before receiving bids or proposals. 2 CFR 200.324(a). Per PDE and Pennsylvania Bulletin, the Entity must perform a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Condition: The District did not follow the appropriate procedures to comply with Uniform Grant Guidance. During our audits and PDE’s monitoring review completed in fiscal year 2023-2024, the ESSER Monitoring Team and we noted the following Procurement Findings: The School District was unable to provide purchase orders for several services purchased with Federal funds. The School District did not document its rationale for noncompetitive procurement. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Procurement files for 2 vendors, which exceed $10,000 but not $22,500 for goods and $10,000 but not $250,000 for services, did not have the accompanying three price or rate quotations. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Vendor contracts did not contain the necessary contract provisions The ESSER Monitoring Team was unable to obtain and review sufficient documentation to verify that the procurement was competitively performed for 1 vendor, such as proof of advertisement, request for proposal, bid evaluation, and award letter for procurement of the following vendor Context: During testing, it was noted that the District had entered into a lease agreement in 2017 to acquire computer equipment. The equipment was acquired through COSTARS, a cooperative purchasing program. While purchases through COSTARS meet the cooperative purchase requirement for local government purchasing under 62 Pa.C.S. section 1902, they do not meet the more stringent requirements of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Subsequently, the District decided to budget for and pay for this lease agreement in the 2021-2022 school year under the Education Stabilization Fund. In using federal funds to pay for the lease agreement, the District inadvertently did not follow its procurement policy. While the school district developed a plan to correct these procedures, it was not fully implemented until the 2023-2024 school year. Cause: Non-compliance with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. Effect: The District did not follow its procurement policy and ultimately did not comply with the standards of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Questioned Cost: None Identification of Repeat Finding: Yes Recommendation: The District must implement procedures to fully comply with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. View of Responsible Officials: The District will require all payments to have either a purchase order or request for payment form completed. The Accounts Payable Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the form is signed for all disbursements. For the particular item cited by our monitors the Superintendent and Business Manager signed off on the invoice instead of a request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager discussed with the Accounts Payable Coordinator that going forward this is insufficient. All payments must have either a purchase order or request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager reviews backup documentation for check disbursements. During their review if any payments are discovered to be missing a purchase order or request for payment form, he will notify the Accounts Payable Coordinator to complete the form. This is effective immediately. The District has also reviewed the applicable Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements and has developed an electronic procurement process that all staff member making the purchase with federal funds, must complete a form prior to the procurement being made. Then the Business Manager approves the form. There is a box to check if the procurement is a sole source. If this is checked the Business Manager will require justification. This process was presented by the Business Office to Leadership Personnel on 5/9/24 and is effective now.
Finding 2024-001: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through agency: Pennsylvania Department of Education Assistance Listing Number: 84.425 Education Stabilization Fund; 84.027 IDEA Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with laws and regulations and the standards for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award or subaward in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement and adherence to related compliance requirements. Records should include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR 200.318(i) Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply 2 CFR 200.320(c): The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold: The item is available only from a single source; The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. adequately document costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200.403(g). The Non-Federal entity must perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold including contract modifications. The method and degree of analysis is dependent on the facts surrounding the particular procurement situation, but as a starting point, the non-Federal entity must make independent estimates before receiving bids or proposals. 2 CFR 200.324(a). Per PDE and Pennsylvania Bulletin, the Entity must perform a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Condition: The District did not follow the appropriate procedures to comply with Uniform Grant Guidance. During our audits and PDE’s monitoring review completed in fiscal year 2023-2024, the ESSER Monitoring Team and we noted the following Procurement Findings: The School District was unable to provide purchase orders for several services purchased with Federal funds. The School District did not document its rationale for noncompetitive procurement. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Procurement files for 2 vendors, which exceed $10,000 but not $22,500 for goods and $10,000 but not $250,000 for services, did not have the accompanying three price or rate quotations. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Vendor contracts did not contain the necessary contract provisions The ESSER Monitoring Team was unable to obtain and review sufficient documentation to verify that the procurement was competitively performed for 1 vendor, such as proof of advertisement, request for proposal, bid evaluation, and award letter for procurement of the following vendor Context: During testing, it was noted that the District had entered into a lease agreement in 2017 to acquire computer equipment. The equipment was acquired through COSTARS, a cooperative purchasing program. While purchases through COSTARS meet the cooperative purchase requirement for local government purchasing under 62 Pa.C.S. section 1902, they do not meet the more stringent requirements of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Subsequently, the District decided to budget for and pay for this lease agreement in the 2021-2022 school year under the Education Stabilization Fund. In using federal funds to pay for the lease agreement, the District inadvertently did not follow its procurement policy. While the school district developed a plan to correct these procedures, it was not fully implemented until the 2023-2024 school year. Cause: Non-compliance with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. Effect: The District did not follow its procurement policy and ultimately did not comply with the standards of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Questioned Cost: None Identification of Repeat Finding: Yes Recommendation: The District must implement procedures to fully comply with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. View of Responsible Officials: The District will require all payments to have either a purchase order or request for payment form completed. The Accounts Payable Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the form is signed for all disbursements. For the particular item cited by our monitors the Superintendent and Business Manager signed off on the invoice instead of a request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager discussed with the Accounts Payable Coordinator that going forward this is insufficient. All payments must have either a purchase order or request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager reviews backup documentation for check disbursements. During their review if any payments are discovered to be missing a purchase order or request for payment form, he will notify the Accounts Payable Coordinator to complete the form. This is effective immediately. The District has also reviewed the applicable Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements and has developed an electronic procurement process that all staff member making the purchase with federal funds, must complete a form prior to the procurement being made. Then the Business Manager approves the form. There is a box to check if the procurement is a sole source. If this is checked the Business Manager will require justification. This process was presented by the Business Office to Leadership Personnel on 5/9/24 and is effective now.
Finding 2024-001: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through agency: Pennsylvania Department of Education Assistance Listing Number: 84.425 Education Stabilization Fund; 84.027 IDEA Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with laws and regulations and the standards for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award or subaward in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement and adherence to related compliance requirements. Records should include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR 200.318(i) Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply 2 CFR 200.320(c): The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold: The item is available only from a single source; The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. adequately document costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200.403(g). The Non-Federal entity must perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold including contract modifications. The method and degree of analysis is dependent on the facts surrounding the particular procurement situation, but as a starting point, the non-Federal entity must make independent estimates before receiving bids or proposals. 2 CFR 200.324(a). Per PDE and Pennsylvania Bulletin, the Entity must perform a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Condition: The District did not follow the appropriate procedures to comply with Uniform Grant Guidance. During our audits and PDE’s monitoring review completed in fiscal year 2023-2024, the ESSER Monitoring Team and we noted the following Procurement Findings: The School District was unable to provide purchase orders for several services purchased with Federal funds. The School District did not document its rationale for noncompetitive procurement. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Procurement files for 2 vendors, which exceed $10,000 but not $22,500 for goods and $10,000 but not $250,000 for services, did not have the accompanying three price or rate quotations. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Vendor contracts did not contain the necessary contract provisions The ESSER Monitoring Team was unable to obtain and review sufficient documentation to verify that the procurement was competitively performed for 1 vendor, such as proof of advertisement, request for proposal, bid evaluation, and award letter for procurement of the following vendor Context: During testing, it was noted that the District had entered into a lease agreement in 2017 to acquire computer equipment. The equipment was acquired through COSTARS, a cooperative purchasing program. While purchases through COSTARS meet the cooperative purchase requirement for local government purchasing under 62 Pa.C.S. section 1902, they do not meet the more stringent requirements of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Subsequently, the District decided to budget for and pay for this lease agreement in the 2021-2022 school year under the Education Stabilization Fund. In using federal funds to pay for the lease agreement, the District inadvertently did not follow its procurement policy. While the school district developed a plan to correct these procedures, it was not fully implemented until the 2023-2024 school year. Cause: Non-compliance with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. Effect: The District did not follow its procurement policy and ultimately did not comply with the standards of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Questioned Cost: None Identification of Repeat Finding: Yes Recommendation: The District must implement procedures to fully comply with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. View of Responsible Officials: The District will require all payments to have either a purchase order or request for payment form completed. The Accounts Payable Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the form is signed for all disbursements. For the particular item cited by our monitors the Superintendent and Business Manager signed off on the invoice instead of a request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager discussed with the Accounts Payable Coordinator that going forward this is insufficient. All payments must have either a purchase order or request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager reviews backup documentation for check disbursements. During their review if any payments are discovered to be missing a purchase order or request for payment form, he will notify the Accounts Payable Coordinator to complete the form. This is effective immediately. The District has also reviewed the applicable Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements and has developed an electronic procurement process that all staff member making the purchase with federal funds, must complete a form prior to the procurement being made. Then the Business Manager approves the form. There is a box to check if the procurement is a sole source. If this is checked the Business Manager will require justification. This process was presented by the Business Office to Leadership Personnel on 5/9/24 and is effective now.
Finding 2024-001: Procurement Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Pass-through agency: Pennsylvania Department of Education Assistance Listing Number: 84.425 Education Stabilization Fund; 84.027 IDEA Criteria: The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entities must have and use documented procurement procedures consistent with laws and regulations and the standards for the acquisition of property or services under a federal award or subaward in accordance with 2 CFR 200.318. The Uniform Guidance requires that non-federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement and adherence to related compliance requirements. Records should include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following rationale for the method of procurement, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. 2 CFR 200.318(i) Noncompetitive procurement can only be awarded if one or more of the following circumstances apply 2 CFR 200.320(c): The acquisition of property or services, the aggregate dollar amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold: The item is available only from a single source; The public exigency or emergency for the requirement will not permit a delay resulting from publicizing a competitive solicitation; The Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes a noncompetitive procurement in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. adequately document costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200.403(g). The Non-Federal entity must perform a cost or price analysis in connection with every procurement action in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold including contract modifications. The method and degree of analysis is dependent on the facts surrounding the particular procurement situation, but as a starting point, the non-Federal entity must make independent estimates before receiving bids or proposals. 2 CFR 200.324(a). Per PDE and Pennsylvania Bulletin, the Entity must perform a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Condition: The District did not follow the appropriate procedures to comply with Uniform Grant Guidance. During our audits and PDE’s monitoring review completed in fiscal year 2023-2024, the ESSER Monitoring Team and we noted the following Procurement Findings: The School District was unable to provide purchase orders for several services purchased with Federal funds. The School District did not document its rationale for noncompetitive procurement. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Procurement files for 2 vendors, which exceed $10,000 but not $22,500 for goods and $10,000 but not $250,000 for services, did not have the accompanying three price or rate quotations. The School District did not conduct a cost or price analysis for purchases in excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold of $250,000. Vendor contracts did not contain the necessary contract provisions The ESSER Monitoring Team was unable to obtain and review sufficient documentation to verify that the procurement was competitively performed for 1 vendor, such as proof of advertisement, request for proposal, bid evaluation, and award letter for procurement of the following vendor Context: During testing, it was noted that the District had entered into a lease agreement in 2017 to acquire computer equipment. The equipment was acquired through COSTARS, a cooperative purchasing program. While purchases through COSTARS meet the cooperative purchase requirement for local government purchasing under 62 Pa.C.S. section 1902, they do not meet the more stringent requirements of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Subsequently, the District decided to budget for and pay for this lease agreement in the 2021-2022 school year under the Education Stabilization Fund. In using federal funds to pay for the lease agreement, the District inadvertently did not follow its procurement policy. While the school district developed a plan to correct these procedures, it was not fully implemented until the 2023-2024 school year. Cause: Non-compliance with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. Effect: The District did not follow its procurement policy and ultimately did not comply with the standards of the Uniform Grant Guidance. Questioned Cost: None Identification of Repeat Finding: Yes Recommendation: The District must implement procedures to fully comply with Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements. View of Responsible Officials: The District will require all payments to have either a purchase order or request for payment form completed. The Accounts Payable Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the form is signed for all disbursements. For the particular item cited by our monitors the Superintendent and Business Manager signed off on the invoice instead of a request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager discussed with the Accounts Payable Coordinator that going forward this is insufficient. All payments must have either a purchase order or request for payment form. The District Accountant / Business Office Manager reviews backup documentation for check disbursements. During their review if any payments are discovered to be missing a purchase order or request for payment form, he will notify the Accounts Payable Coordinator to complete the form. This is effective immediately. The District has also reviewed the applicable Uniform Guidance Procurement requirements and has developed an electronic procurement process that all staff member making the purchase with federal funds, must complete a form prior to the procurement being made. Then the Business Manager approves the form. There is a box to check if the procurement is a sole source. If this is checked the Business Manager will require justification. This process was presented by the Business Office to Leadership Personnel on 5/9/24 and is effective now.
NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PROCUREMENT, SUSPENSION & DEBARMENT REQUIREMENTS, CORONAVIRUS STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL RECOVERY FUNDS; AL No. 21.027, YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024 Criteria: Per section 13 of Treasury’s Final Rule FAQs and 2 CFR 200.214, counties must comply with the procurement standards set forth in 2 CFR 200.318, through 2 CFR 200.327, when using their SLFRF award funds to procure goods and services to carry out the objectives of their SLFRF award. In addition, 2 CFR 200.214, prohibits recipients from using SLFRF funds to enter into subawards and contracts with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs. Condition 1: The county did not verify that program recipients/participants were not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from participation in the program. Condition 2: The county did not formally bid a communications upgrade pre-install project as required by federal procurement standards established in 2 CFR 300.19. Cause: The county does not have procurement policies and procedures in place that allows it to comply with procurement standards outlined in the Uniform Guidance. Effect: Non-compliance with program terms and conditions. Questioned Costs: None Recommendation: Management should develop procedures that will provide reasonable assurance that procurement of goods and services are made in compliance with applicable federal regulations and other procurement requirements specific to a federal award or subaward, and that no subaward, contract, or agreement for purchase of goods or services is made with any suspended or debarred party. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action: The government agrees with this finding and will adhere to the attached corrective action plan.
Criteria: The Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR 200.318(I)) requires that each non-Federal entity must maintain records sufficient to detail the history of each procurement transaction. These records must include the rationale for the procurement method, contract type selection, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. Condition: The Organization did not maintain sufficient documentation of its procurement decisions. Cause: The exception noted above was due a lack of documentation of the process followed by the Organization to ensure that all procurements of goods and services are in accordance with the Uniform Guidance and it’s procurement policy. Context: The population subject procurement requirements was one vendor under the small purchase threshold. The Organization did not maintain documentation of quotes from other qualified sources and document the selection of the vendor. Effect: Improper procurement procedures can result in actions taken by oversight agencies which could impact future funding. Recommendation: The Organization should ensure its procedures specifically include maintaining documentation of procurement decisions. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the finding and recommendation.
MATERIAL WEAKNESS IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER COMPLIANCE AND MATERIAL NONCOMPLIANCE – U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, PASSED THROUGH MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, CHILD NUTRITION CLUSTER – FEDERAL ALN 10.553, 10.555, AND 10.559 2024-002 Internal Control Over Compliance and Material Noncompliance With Federal Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Requirements Criteria – 2 CFR § 180 and 2 CFR § 200.318-327 requires the District to establish and maintain effective internal control over compliance with requirements applicable to federal program expenditures, including procurement, suspension, and debarment requirements applicable to the child nutrition cluster federal program. Condition – During our audit, we noted the District did not have sufficient controls in place resulting in material noncompliance within its child nutrition cluster federal program to ensure compliance with federal procurement requirements related to methods of procurement and to assure that it was not contracting for goods or services with parties that are suspended or debarred, or whose principals are suspended or debarred from participating in contracts involving the expenditures of federal program funds. Questioned Costs – None. Context – For two of six vendors exceeding the micro-purchase threshold, the District did not document procurement policy and the Uniform Guidance requirements related to methods of procurement and a proper documentation of suspension and debarment testing was not maintained for four of four vendors tested to ensure compliance with this requirement in the current year. This was not a statistically valid sample. Repeat Finding – This is a current year and prior year finding. Cause – This was an oversight by district personnel. Effect – Noncompliance with procurement, suspension, and debarment requirements could result in the District expending federal funds inappropriately or utilizing vendors that are not eligible to be parties to such transactions, which could be viewed as a violation of the award agreement. Recommendation – We recommend that the District review its internal control procedures relating to procurement, suspension, and debarment for the child nutrition cluster federal program. Internal controls over compliance should be in place to ensure compliance with federal procurement procedures, including awarding and documenting contracts based on sealed bids or quotations for the purchase of goods or services exceeding applicable federal dollar thresholds. Internal controls over compliance should also include verification that any vendor with which the District contracts for goods or services exceeding $25,000 is not listed as suspended or debarred on the federal Excluded Parties List System website. View of Responsible Official and Planned Corrective Actions – The District agrees with the finding. The District intends to review its policies and procedures relating to procurement, suspension, and debarment for its federal programs to ensure compliance with the Uniform Guidance in the future. The District has separately issued a Corrective Action Plan related to this finding.
MATERIAL WEAKNESS IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER COMPLIANCE AND MATERIAL NONCOMPLIANCE – U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, PASSED THROUGH MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, CHILD NUTRITION CLUSTER – FEDERAL ALN 10.553, 10.555, AND 10.559 2024-002 Internal Control Over Compliance and Material Noncompliance With Federal Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Requirements Criteria – 2 CFR § 180 and 2 CFR § 200.318-327 requires the District to establish and maintain effective internal control over compliance with requirements applicable to federal program expenditures, including procurement, suspension, and debarment requirements applicable to the child nutrition cluster federal program. Condition – During our audit, we noted the District did not have sufficient controls in place resulting in material noncompliance within its child nutrition cluster federal program to ensure compliance with federal procurement requirements related to methods of procurement and to assure that it was not contracting for goods or services with parties that are suspended or debarred, or whose principals are suspended or debarred from participating in contracts involving the expenditures of federal program funds. Questioned Costs – None. Context – For two of six vendors exceeding the micro-purchase threshold, the District did not document procurement policy and the Uniform Guidance requirements related to methods of procurement and a proper documentation of suspension and debarment testing was not maintained for four of four vendors tested to ensure compliance with this requirement in the current year. This was not a statistically valid sample. Repeat Finding – This is a current year and prior year finding. Cause – This was an oversight by district personnel. Effect – Noncompliance with procurement, suspension, and debarment requirements could result in the District expending federal funds inappropriately or utilizing vendors that are not eligible to be parties to such transactions, which could be viewed as a violation of the award agreement. Recommendation – We recommend that the District review its internal control procedures relating to procurement, suspension, and debarment for the child nutrition cluster federal program. Internal controls over compliance should be in place to ensure compliance with federal procurement procedures, including awarding and documenting contracts based on sealed bids or quotations for the purchase of goods or services exceeding applicable federal dollar thresholds. Internal controls over compliance should also include verification that any vendor with which the District contracts for goods or services exceeding $25,000 is not listed as suspended or debarred on the federal Excluded Parties List System website. View of Responsible Official and Planned Corrective Actions – The District agrees with the finding. The District intends to review its policies and procedures relating to procurement, suspension, and debarment for its federal programs to ensure compliance with the Uniform Guidance in the future. The District has separately issued a Corrective Action Plan related to this finding.
MATERIAL WEAKNESS IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER COMPLIANCE AND MATERIAL NONCOMPLIANCE – U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, PASSED THROUGH MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, CHILD NUTRITION CLUSTER – FEDERAL ALN 10.553, 10.555, AND 10.559 2024-002 Internal Control Over Compliance and Material Noncompliance With Federal Procurement, Suspension, and Debarment Requirements Criteria – 2 CFR § 180 and 2 CFR § 200.318-327 requires the District to establish and maintain effective internal control over compliance with requirements applicable to federal program expenditures, including procurement, suspension, and debarment requirements applicable to the child nutrition cluster federal program. Condition – During our audit, we noted the District did not have sufficient controls in place resulting in material noncompliance within its child nutrition cluster federal program to ensure compliance with federal procurement requirements related to methods of procurement and to assure that it was not contracting for goods or services with parties that are suspended or debarred, or whose principals are suspended or debarred from participating in contracts involving the expenditures of federal program funds. Questioned Costs – None. Context – For two of six vendors exceeding the micro-purchase threshold, the District did not document procurement policy and the Uniform Guidance requirements related to methods of procurement and a proper documentation of suspension and debarment testing was not maintained for four of four vendors tested to ensure compliance with this requirement in the current year. This was not a statistically valid sample. Repeat Finding – This is a current year and prior year finding. Cause – This was an oversight by district personnel. Effect – Noncompliance with procurement, suspension, and debarment requirements could result in the District expending federal funds inappropriately or utilizing vendors that are not eligible to be parties to such transactions, which could be viewed as a violation of the award agreement. Recommendation – We recommend that the District review its internal control procedures relating to procurement, suspension, and debarment for the child nutrition cluster federal program. Internal controls over compliance should be in place to ensure compliance with federal procurement procedures, including awarding and documenting contracts based on sealed bids or quotations for the purchase of goods or services exceeding applicable federal dollar thresholds. Internal controls over compliance should also include verification that any vendor with which the District contracts for goods or services exceeding $25,000 is not listed as suspended or debarred on the federal Excluded Parties List System website. View of Responsible Official and Planned Corrective Actions – The District agrees with the finding. The District intends to review its policies and procedures relating to procurement, suspension, and debarment for its federal programs to ensure compliance with the Uniform Guidance in the future. The District has separately issued a Corrective Action Plan related to this finding.
Information on the federal program: Subject: Special Education Cluster – Internal Controls Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: Special Education Grants to States Assistance Listing Number: 84.027, 84.027X Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-090-PN01, 23611-090-PN01, 22611-090-ARP, 24611-090-PN01 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Finding: Material Weakness Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable Federal law and the standards identified in this part." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal Entity must use one of the following methods of procurement. . . . (b) Procurement by small purchase procedures. Small purchase procedures are those relatively simple and informal procurement methods for securing services, supplies, or other property that do not cost more than the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. . . ." 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure compliance with requirements related to the Special Education Cluster and Procurement compliance requirements. Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs. Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified. Context: For the three small purchase method procurements sampled for testing, we noted that the School Corporation, did not obtain quotes from an adequate number of qualified sources. The total amount disbursed for the sample items was $127,299 in FY23 and $25,354 in FY24 for contracted rehabilitation therapy and speech pathology services. Additionally, the School Corporation did not perform suspension and debarment checks on the sample vendors. Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding numbers were 2022-005 and 2022-006. Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controls related to ensure that the School Corporation’s procurement policy is adhered to and quotes are obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as required for small purchase method procurements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.
Information on the federal program: Subject: Special Education Cluster – Internal Controls Federal Agency: Department of Education Federal Program: Special Education Grants to States Assistance Listing Number: 84.027, 84.027X Federal Award Numbers and Years (or Other Identifying Numbers): 22611-090-PN01, 23611-090-PN01, 22611-090-ARP, 24611-090-PN01 Pass-Through Entity: Indiana Department of Education Compliance Requirement: Procurement and Suspension and Debarment Audit Finding: Material Weakness Criteria: 2 CFR 200.303 states in part: "The non-Federal entity must: (a) Establish and maintain effective internal control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in 'Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government' issued by the Comptroller General of the United States or the 'Internal Control Integrated Framework', issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). . . ." 2 CFR 200.318(a) states: "The non-Federal entity must use its own documented procurement procedures which reflect applicable State, local, and tribal laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable Federal law and the standards identified in this part." 2 CFR 200.320 states in part: "The non-Federal Entity must use one of the following methods of procurement. . . . (b) Procurement by small purchase procedures. Small purchase procedures are those relatively simple and informal procurement methods for securing services, supplies, or other property that do not cost more than the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. If small purchase procedures are used, price or rate quotations must be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources. . . ." 2 CFR 180.300 states: "When you enter into a covered transaction with another person at the next lower tier, you must verify that the person with whom you intend to do business is not excluded or disqualified. You do this by: (a) Checking SAM Exclusions; or (b) Collecting a certification from that person; or (c) Adding a clause or condition to the covered transaction with that person." Condition: An effective internal control system was not in place at the School Corporation to ensure compliance with requirements related to the Special Education Cluster and Procurement compliance requirements. Cause: The School Corporation's management had not developed a system of internal controls that would have ensured compliance with the Procurement and Suspension and Debarment compliance requirement. Effect: The failure to establish an effective internal control system placed the School Corporation at risk of noncompliance with the grant agreement and the compliance requirements. A lack of segregation of duties within an internal control system could have also allowed noncompliance with the compliance requirements and allowed the misuse and mismanagement of federal funds and assets by not having proper oversight, reviews, and approvals over the activities of the programs. Questioned Costs: There were no questioned costs identified. Context: For the three small purchase method procurements sampled for testing, we noted that the School Corporation, did not obtain quotes from an adequate number of qualified sources. The total amount disbursed for the sample items was $127,299 in FY23 and $25,354 in FY24 for contracted rehabilitation therapy and speech pathology services. Additionally, the School Corporation did not perform suspension and debarment checks on the sample vendors. Identification as a repeat finding: This is a repeat finding from the immediately prior audit. The prior finding numbers were 2022-005 and 2022-006. Recommendation: We recommended that the School Corporation's management establish a system of internal controls related to ensure that the School Corporation’s procurement policy is adhered to and quotes are obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources as required for small purchase method procurements. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Actions: Management agrees with the finding and has prepared a corrective action plan.