ABSTRACT
This chapter describes and analyzes the structural organization, resources, and staff of Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and DHS Office of the Inspector General (OIG). This office provides legal advice to the IG and other management officials; supports audits, inspections, and investigations by ensuring that applicable laws and regulations are followed; serves as the OIGs designated ethics office; manages the OIGs Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act responsibilities. In fact, the DHS inspector general has reported that the lack of staffing is preventing proper procurement planning and is severely limiting the department's ability to monitor contractor performance and conduct effective contract oversight. The case of the Inspector General of DHS is particularly challenging as this person is charged to oversee a very complex agency with a very important mission. To sum up, evidence in the DHS and the DHS OIG analyzed through the chapter supports the case study proposition that says IGs have become more independent.
