"I would not have expected the problems or issues found in the expanded Layton/PricewaterhouseCoopers review of Laboratory procurement programs to be substantially different from what was found in their earlier purchase card review. They were examining essentially the same time frame (2000-2002) as the earlier look at purchase cards.
"The weaknesses identified in both reviews — insufficient policies and procedures, lack of timely and reliable data and inadequate management — are being rapidly addressed by a complete re-engineering of the Laboratory's business processes.
"Just as immediate steps were taken in August 2002, when irregularities in the purchase card system were first identified, to implement needed controls and accountability, we also have taken steps to address deficiencies in the just-in-time and local vendor agreements processes. They are among more than 92 measurable milestones, with 514 assigned and accountable activities that are part of the laboratory's overall Business Improvement Project Plan.
"We welcome the additional recommendations contained in this report and will ensure they, too, are quickly implemented. We are committed to ensuring our business processes meet the level of accountability expected by the American public. We will accept nothing less."
Los Alamos enhances global security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health and national security concerns.
Los Alamos National Laboratory, a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security, is operated by Los Alamos National Security, LLC, a team composed of Bechtel National, the University of California, The Babcock & Wilcox Company, and Washington Group International for the Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration.
Los Alamos enhances national security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health, and global security concerns.