Councilmember David A. Catania - Catania Introduces Measure To Increase Oversight Of Public Funds

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January 6, 2009
11:13 pm
33° F
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Catania Introduces Measure To Increase Oversight Of Public Funds

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Councilmember David Catania (At-Large) introduced legislation December 16, 2003, to require a person who receives public funds in the form of a contract or grant to appear before the Council when requested to do so by the Council Chairman or the Chairman of a committee. The measure was introduced in response to a recent hearing during which dozens of Workforce Investment Act contractors failed to testify on, and therefore account for, their use of public funds.

"I believe when persons are receiving taxpayer dollars, it is incumbent upon them to honor a request of the Chairman of the Council or of a committee to answer questions on how the funds are being used and whether they are producing the desired results," Catania said. "The Council cannot possibly perform its oversight responsibilities if it is not able to find out if monies are being spent wisely."

Under Catania's proposed legislation, dubbed the "Use of Public Funds Responsibility and Accountability Act of 2003," a contractor may face suspension or a contract may be canceled if those responsible do not appear when called by a Council body.

This legislation was co-sponsored by Councilmembers Schwartz (At-Large), Graham (Ward 1), Orange (Ward 5) and Allen (Ward 8) and referred to the Government Operations Committee. For more information regarding this legislation, contact the Office of Councilmember Catania at 202.724.7772.