H.R. 928 Improving Government Accountability Act

On August 2, 2007, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee ordered reported H.R. 928: Improving Government Accountability Act. This legislation, introduced by Rep. Jim Cooper, would strengthen the role of the Inspectors General (IGs) in providing independent oversight within federal agencies. It amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 to allow an Inspector General (IG) to be removed from office prior to the expiration of his or her term only on the grounds of permanent incapacity; inefficiency; neglect of duty; malfeasance; or conviction of a felony or conduct involving moral turpitude.

The bill establishes the term of office of each IG as seven years and permits reappointment. It establishes within the Executive Branch the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency to increase the professionalism and effectiveness of personnel in IG offices. It further establishes an Integrity Committee for the Council to review and refer for investigation allegations that are made against IGs and certain staff of the IG Offices.

The bill considers each Office of IG to be a separate federal agency. And it empowers IGs of certain designated federal entities with the same law enforcement authority provided to other IGs.