The Association of Inspectors General is an independent, nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded in 1996 to strengthen public sector oversight and advance integrity and accountability in government.
Yesterday’s ruling by Baltimore City Circuit Judge Pamela White that instructs the city to comply with subpoenas issued by the Baltimore City Office of Inspector General (OIG) and restore the OIG’s direct access to city records is a win for government transparency and oversight.
Inspectors general exist to provide independent, objective oversight and to promote accountability, transparency, and integrity in government on behalf of taxpayers. This ruling in Baltimore affirms that OIGs must have direct and unobstructed access to the records of their respective governmental entities.
For inspectors general to administer independent and fair oversight in a manner worthy of the public’s trust, they must be able to determine how government agencies have transacted business or exercised authority on behalf of the taxpayers they represent. Anyone interested in promoting government transparency and efficiency should be concerned whenever official public records are shielded from oversight.
Based on our 30-year history of establishing and promoting OIG quality standards and best practices, the Association of Inspectors General celebrates yesterday’s ruling in Baltimore and stands with independent offices of inspector general in their fight to combat government waste, fraud, and abuse—and protect taxpayers’ investment in government.
Will Fletcher, President
Association of Inspectors General
Click here to download the statement.
