Department of Homeland Security: Billions Invested in Major Programs Lack Appropriate Oversight

摘要

In fiscal year 2007, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) obligated about $12 billion for acquisitions to support homeland security missions. DHSs major investments include Coast Guard ships and aircraft; border surveillance and screening equipment; nuclear detection equipment; and systems to track finances and human resources. In part to provide insight into the cost, schedule, and performance of these acquisitions, DHS established an investment review process in 2003. However, concerns have been raised about how well the process has been implemented particularly for large investments. GAO was asked to (1) evaluate DHSs implementation of the investment review process, and (2) assess DHSs integration of the investment review and budget processes to ensure major investments fulfill mission needs. GAO reviewed relevant documents, including those for 57 DHS major investments (investments with a value of at least $50 million)48 of which required department-level review through the second quarter of fiscal year 2008; and interviewed DHS headquarters and component officials. GAO is making several recommendations aimed at better ensuring DHS fully implements and adheres to its investment review process, including tracking major investments and better integrating oversight results with budget decisions. DHS generally concurred with these recommendations.