Finding Text
Criteria or specific requirement: Under section 2003(5) of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 (ARP) (Pub. L. 117-2) (supplemental award or grant) by the U.S. Department of Education, Recipient must use a portion of their institutional funds received under this supplemental award to (a) to implement evidence-based practices to monitor and suppress coronavirus in accordance with public health guidelines; and (b) conduct direct outreach to financial aid applicants about the opportunity to receive a financial aid adjustment due to the recent unemployment of a family member or independent student, or other circumstances, described in section 479A of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA) (20 USC ? 1087tt). Condition: During our testing, we noted that the University only met the earmarking requirement to implement evidence-based practices to monitor and suppress coronavirus in accordance with public health guidelines. The University did not meet the requirement to conduct direct outreach to financial aid applicants. Questioned costs: Unknown. Context: During our testing, we noted that the University was not in compliance with the ARPA Earmarking requirements. Cause: The policies and procedures of the University did not ensure that grant earmarking requirements were accurately met. Effect: Non-compliance with federal regulations could lead to funds being required to be returned or reallocated in order to meet the earmarking requirement. Repeat finding: No Recommendation: We recommend that the University understand and monitor the earmarking requirements of all grants to ensure compliance requirements are met. View of responsible official: The University agrees with the finding.