Department of Inspector General Peer Review

The foundation of the Department of Inspector General policies and procedures is the International Professional Practices Framework (Red Book) promulgated by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), and the Principles and Standards for Offices of Inspector General (Green Book) promulgated by the Association of Inspectors General (AIG).

IIA and AIG provide standards related to quality of services. Specifically, the Red Book standards include a requirement for a Quality Assurance and Improvement Program to be part of the foundation of an independent and credible Department of Inspector General. A successful external assessment of compliance with these standards is considered a "Gold Standard" in the auditing profession. 

In February 2021, the Inspector General contacted the Association of Inspectors General to request an external assessment, or peer review, of the Department of Inspector General’s compliance with Red Book standards. In March 2021, an engagement letter was executed for the limited-scope peer review.

The scope was required to be limited because the Department of Inspector General re-established workflows, policies, and procedures effective January 1, 2021, which was a period less than the suggested minimum of three years before requesting a peer review. The Inspector General requested the peer review after less than a year because the Department had not previously undergone a peer review, and wanted assurance all professional standards were being met.

The Association of Inspectors General opinion was reflected in the Peer Review Opinion Letter dated July 21, 2021.