The U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) serves as the oversight agency for the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA). In addition to serving as a nationwide clearinghouse for election administration information, developing voting system and voter registration database guidelines, and testing and certifying voting equipment, the EAC provides funding to the states. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) began auditing states in 2004 to ensure HAVA money is spent in compliance with federal law and federal guidance.

2009-10 Audit Actions

  • February 2, 2009 to May 5, 2009 - The OIG conducted a routine, planned audit of California's HAVA program for the calendar years 2005-2008 pursuant to the EAC's authority and responsibility as the federal oversight authority for HAVA.
  • December 14, 2009 - The OIG issued its final report (PDF) to the EAC, which includes the Secretary of State's response (PDF) to the audit findings.
  • December 30, 2010 - The EAC issued its final audit resolution memorandum (PDF) to the OIG, which concluded the Secretary of State's oversight of the program is in compliance with federal law.

2007-08 Audit Actions

  • There were no audit actions during this period.

2004-06 Audit Actions

  • December 16, 2004 - The California Bureau of State Audits (BSA) issued a report (PDF) on its review of California's HAVA expenditures.
  • Summer 2005 - The OIG conducted a follow-up audit of HAVA expenditures, on behalf of the EAC based on the BSA findings.
  • December 19, 2005 - The OIG issued its final report (PDF) to the EAC, which includes the Secretary of State's response (PDF) to the OIG report.
  • May 16, 2006 - After reviewing the OIG's report and the Secretary of State's response, the EAC issued its audit report (PDF) and allowed 30 days for a Secretary of State response.
  • June 16, 2006 - The Secretary of State's office responded (PDF) to the EAC report.
  • October 16, 2006 - The EAC issued its final decision (PDF) on the Secretary of State's appeal of certain audit findings.