Powers/Functions

To carry out its oversight role, the Recovery Board has been granted specific powers and functions under the Recovery Act. The Board can:

• Audit and review stimulus spending either on its own or in collaboration with federal Inspectors General.
• Issue subpoenas to carry out its audit and review responsibilities.
• Refer instances of fraud, waste and mismanagement to federal Inspectors General.
• Hold public hearings and compel testimony through subpoenas.
• Enter into the contracts for audits, studies, analyses and other services with public agencies and private entities.
• Review whether there are sufficient and qualified acquisition and grant personnel overseeing Recovery Act funds.
• Submit quarterly and annual reports to the President and Congress as well as "flash reports" on potential problems that require immediate attention.
• Make recommendations to federal agencies on measures to prevent fraud, waste and mismanagement of Recovery Act funds.