Revision of Excess and Surplus Property Biennial Reporting Requirement

GAO discussed proposed legislation that would modify its biennial reporting requirements under the General Services Administration's (GSA) program for transfers of excess personal property and donations of surplus personal property. GAO found that: (1) its past reports fully determined the effects of Public Law 94-519 and met Congress' objective to have GAO independently evaluate the program; and (2) it should audit the program less regularly and intensively than the law required, since the program was mature and fully implemented. GAO noted that, in May 1988, it renewed its 1985 request that Congress eliminate GAO reporting requirements. GAO found that the proposed legislation: (1) did not fully repeal the reporting requirements, but represented a reasonable accommodation that would allow flexibility while ensuring the Comptroller General's continued oversight and review; and (2) would allow GAO to use GSA reports to spot problems and use GAO staff effectively. GAO endorsed the proposed legislation and urged its enactment.