IG Subpoena Authority Act

IG Subpoena Authority Act

This bill grants inspectors general subpoena authority to compel the attendance and testimony of witnesses. Inspectors general may not require by subpoena the attendance and testimony of any current federal employees, but they may use other authorized procedures.

To be issued, such a subpoena (1) must be approved by a panel comprised of three inspectors general of the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, and (2) must not be objected to by the Department of Justice.

Bill 117 HR 2089, also known as the IG Subpoena Authority Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to grant Inspectors General (IGs) of various federal agencies the authority to issue subpoenas during their investigations.

The bill aims to strengthen the ability of IGs to conduct thorough and effective investigations by providing them with the power to compel witnesses to testify and produce documents relevant to their inquiries. This authority would help IGs to uncover potential misconduct, fraud, waste, and abuse within the federal government.

Supporters of the bill argue that granting IGs subpoena authority is essential for ensuring accountability and transparency in government operations. They believe that this measure will help to prevent and detect corruption, ultimately leading to improved efficiency and effectiveness in federal agencies. Opponents of the bill may raise concerns about potential misuse of subpoena power by IGs or the impact on individual privacy rights. However, proponents argue that safeguards and oversight mechanisms are included in the legislation to prevent abuse and protect the rights of individuals involved in IG investigations. Overall, the IG Subpoena Authority Act represents an important step towards enhancing the investigative capabilities of Inspectors General and promoting integrity in government operations. It will be interesting to see how this bill progresses through the legislative process and what impact it may have on federal oversight and accountability.