Finding Text
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Office for Victims of Crime Federal Program Name: Crime Victim Assistance
Assistance Listing Number: 16.575
Federal Award Identification Number and Year: V2-GX-0004 - 2020
Pass-Through Agency: Office of the Governor of Texas, Criminal Justice Division, Children's Advocacy Centers of Texas
Award Period: October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024
Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Other Matter
Criteria:
The Organization should acquire goods and services based upon maximum open and free competition to obtain the best value for financial resources. In circumstances in which goods or services purchased will cost more than $10,000 but less than $250,000, attempts will be made to secure at least three bids for consideration. In circumstances in which goods or services purchased will cost more than $250,000 competitive sealed bids should be obtained or competitive negotiations should be performed. Non-competitive negotiations are also allowed in certain circumstances.
Condition and Context:
The Organization did not receive any bids for one of its services in the small purchases category since 2017. Additionally, the Organization did not receive any bids for equipment leases which fell in the large purchases category.
Questioned Costs:
Estimated maximum: N/A
Cause:
Lack of key control over the procurement process for small and large purchases.
Effect:
Organization could be paying for certain services at a rate that might not be competitive to the market.
Repeat Finding:
No
Recommendation:
The Organization should obtain multiple bids for services over micro purchase threshold in accordance with the Organization's procurement policy.
View of Responsible Officials:
Management is in agreement.