Audit Catches TWRA Misuse of Funds

The Tennessee Comptroller of Treasury recently conducted a performance audit of activities and selected programs of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. The Comptroller of Treasury had several alarming findings. Among the findings, they found the agency did not maintain proper controls over state credit cards. In addition, TWRA did not report lost or stolen equipment in a timely manner.

Representative Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby)stated, “I am extremely disappointed in the TWRA. When you consistently mistreat Tennesseans and mismanage public funds there is a serious problem. I would love to see the TWRA director show leadership and effectively resolve these long-standing problems. Five years is far too long, and I believe it is time to put an end to this flagrant misuse of public funds.”

TWRA employees improperly used State payment cards to purchase services and goods that were not permitted. In addition, two employees exceeded purchasing limits. They purposefully circumvented safe guards, breaking one high-dollar transaction into several. “While sportsmen struggle to make ends meet the TWRA appears to be taking joyrides with their license dollars,” said Senator Frank Nicely (R-Strawberry Plains)

TWRA officials did not maintain proper internal controls over equipment. Failing to follow procedures caused their inability to detect, prevent, or correct asset misappropriation. Time lapses in reporting also limited their ability to identify and locate stolen items. Furthermore, TWRA employees were not held responsible for lost items.

 “Every team has bad players. If this was football the coach would either have to step up or step out. I look forward to asking the tough questions and holding the TWRA accountable for their actions,” said Faison.

The report can be viewed at: http://www.comptroller.tn.gov/repository/SA/pa13054.pdf