Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Peter R. Orszag, Director, OMB
Each year, taxpayers lose billions of dollars in wasteful improper payments by the federal government to individuals, organizations, and contractors. "Improper payments" is an umbrella term that covers a number of financial transactions — overpayments to individuals or firms is one example; benefit payments to ineligible program participants is another. In 2008, improper payments totaled $72 billion; in 2009, they totaled $98 billion — an increase driven by improved detection and the significant increase in federal outlays associated with the economic downturn. These errors and mistakes are unacceptable. Taxpayers deserve to know that their dollars are being spent wisely and effectively.
In response, the President, over the next week, will sign an executive order to rein in these improper payments so that the right people receive the right payment for the right reason. The response revolves around three categories of action: boosting transparency, holding agencies accountable, and creating strong incentives for compliance. In addition to the Executive Order, Congress is making efforts to reduce fraud, waste, and abuse through improper payments. We look forward to continuing to work with Congress, including Senators Carper and McCaskill and Congressman Patrick Murphy, on this important issue.
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