[FERC Use of Government Motor Vehicles and Printing Plant Facilities for Partnership in Education Program]

The Department of Energy requested a decision regarding whether the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) improperly used its printing plant facilities and government vehicles while participating in an education program. GAO held that: (1) FERC authority to support the program derived from its responsibility to educate the public, enhance recruiting, help develop professional skills, and foster energy conservation; and (2) the use of printing facilities and government vehicles to provide transportation to students was within FERC discretion. Accordingly, FERC was authorized to support the program.