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Kennedy Center: Audit Duplication Can Be Prevented

GGD-97-161 Published: Aug 19, 1997. Publicly Released: Aug 19, 1997.
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Highlights

Pursuant to a legislative requirement, GAO examined the potential for duplication of effort arising from multiple audit requirements involving the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts' appropriated funds, focusing on whether: (1) the Center's contracted auditor planned and carried out an audit that complied with the standards set forth in the Government Auditing Standards; and (2) GAO should continue the work necessary to plan and do its own audit. GAO did not perform a detailed review of all of the documentation contained in the auditor's files supporting its audit of appropriated funds nor reperform tests conducted by the auditor.

Recommendations

Matter for Congressional Consideration

Matter Status Comments
Congress should consider, in reauthorizing the appropriations for the maintenance, repair, and security, and capital projects at the Center, deleting the requirement that the Comptroller General audit the funds appropriated. To statutorily ensure continued audits of those funds, Congress may wish to consider including, in the reauthorization legislation, a requirement that the Center continue contracting for annual financial statement audits, subject to the Government Auditing Standards, to ensure that appropriated funds are properly obligated and expended in compliance with statutory authorities and limitations.
Closed – Implemented
Public Law 105-226, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Authorization Act of 1998, was signed by the President on August 12, 1998. The law repeals the GAO audit requirement.

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Topics

AccountantsAccounting proceduresAppropriated fundsAudit authorityAudit reportsAuditing standardsFinancial statement auditsInternal controlsGovernment auditing standardsFinancial statements