Presidential Inaugurations: Legislation Is Needed To Clarify Agencies' Support Roles
GGD-87-10
Published: Feb 27, 1987. Publicly Released: Mar 25, 1987.
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Highlights
In response to a congressional request, GAO examined: (1) the adequacy of federal agencies' statutory authority to use their resources to support presidential inaugural activities; and (2) whether there is a need for legislation to clarify the policy on the use of federal resources to support future inaugurations.
Recommendations
Matter for Congressional Consideration
| Matter | Status | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Congress should enact legislation to clearly establish: (1) the extent to which inaugural functions and activities are to be publicly financed either through specific appropriations or through assistance provided by departments and agencies; and (2) that the disbursement of public funds or the furnishing of assistance over and above the extent authorized shall constitute a violation of the Antideficiency Act in the amount of such overdisbursement or of the full cost of assistance provided, unless prompt reimbursement is made by the political party of the newly elected President or from other private funds. |
Closed – Implemented
|
The fiscal year 1989 Department of Defense (DOD) Authorization Act provided guidance for DOD, but not other federal agencies. With Senator Proxmire's retirement, future corrective action is very unlikely as evidenced by the lack of interest in the 1989 inauguration. |
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Topics
Agency missionsFederal fundsInvestigations into federal agenciesLegislationPresidential transitionPrivate sectorReimbursements to governmentStatutory lawFederal agenciesExpenditure of funds