GAO Urges Treasury to Implement Additional Monitoring of ERA Funds

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress funded $47 billion in grants for renters unable to pay rent or utilities. The U.S. Department of Treasury disbursed the grants to state and local governments, which then paid renters, landlords, and utility providers.

To expedite payments, the Treasury introduced flexibilities—for example, allowing renters to self-attest their eligibility instead of providing documentation when applying for funds. However, the agency has not implemented monitoring procedures needed to manage the increased risks associated with these flexibilities—like grantees making payments to ineligible renters.

To read the full story and the GAO's recommendations, visit: https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-22-105490