Secretary of State Bev Clarno Releases “Keeping Oregon Accountable” Report, June 19

SALEM, OR — The Secretary of State released the annual “Keeping Oregon Accountable” report. This report summarizes the results of the Oregon Audits Division’s two largest annual audits: the audit of Oregon’s financial statements, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), and a compliance audit of the state’s administration of federal programs, otherwise known as the Statewide Single Audit. “State agencies are accountable to Oregonians for how they use public money,” said Secretary of State Bev Clarno. “These two annual audits help identify where we can save public money.” Auditors found accounting errors totaling $1.3 billion, but no evidence of fraud. Auditors questioned whether $2.8 million in expenditures were allowed to be paid with federal funds. While many agencies strive to clear federal audit findings by the next cycle, some persistent findings require more attention from management to ensure proper reporting and that money will be spent appropriately. The audits provide an independent professional opinion on the accuracy of the state’s financial statements and compliance with federal rules and are required for the state to receive over $12 billion in federal monies for important social, economic, and environmental programs in Oregon.