GAO Reports & Testimonies

Coast Guard Discrimination: GAO Recommends Actions for Personnel

The GAO has released a report recommending actions for the Coast Guard to address inconsistencies in handling discrimination and harassment incidents affecting its 40,000 personnel. The report highlights differing interpretations of policies and a lack of standardized documentation processes, urging the Coast Guard to implement clearer definitions and a consistent collection system.

GAO Report on Service Member Absence Response Guidance

A GAO report released on February 12, 2026, identifies significant gaps in the Army, Navy, and Air Force's guidance for responding to absent service members. The report highlights inconsistencies in response timeframes, mental health considerations, and safety protocols, recommending improvements to prevent harm and save lives.

GAO Report on CBP Northern Border Challenges and Staffing Gaps

A GAO report highlights significant challenges faced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) along the northern border, including a more than threefold increase in apprehensions from FY 2019 to 2024 and critical staffing gaps for specialists monitoring surveillance technology. The report recommends CBP develop a plan to address these workforce shortages.

GAO Report on Do Not Pay System Benefits and SSA Death Data Costs

A GAO report highlights that the Treasury's Do Not Pay system, using SSA death data, is projected to yield $337 million in benefits over three years. However, increased SSA costs for state death records and improper cost allocation among agencies require attention.

GAO Update on COVID-19 Relief Funds Spending by States and Localities

The GAO has released an update on the spending of COVID-19 relief funds by state and local governments. As of March 31, 2025, states had spent 80% of their funds, and localities had spent 84%. Recipients had until December 31, 2026, to spend the remaining funds.