Why We Did This Report
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General initiated this audit to determine whether the EPA distributed Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act, or WIIN Act, funds to replace lead service lines in disadvantaged communities in adherence with applicable guidance. The WIIN Act, Pub. L. 114-322, was enacted in 2016.
Summary of Findings
We determined that the EPA awarded WIIN Act funds consistent with nearly all guidance and improved Agency processes to increase the transparency of funding decisions. We identified two documentation issues that the EPA experienced before it awarded funds. Agency staff reported to us that they had addressed one of these issues with additional controls and a new oversight structure within the Office of Water, or the OW, and the other through a new standard operating procedure within the Office of Grants and Debarment.