An audit reveals alarming security gaps in federal buildings housing day care centers, jeopardizing the safety of thousands of children.
At a Glance
- Inspector general’s audit highlights severe security vulnerabilities in GSA-controlled child care centers.
- The report identifies significant security lapses in 80 out of 93 inspected facilities.
- Critical security updates are delayed, compromising the safety of children and caregivers.
- GSA needs funding and additional measures to rectify these vulnerabilities.
Security Gaps in GSA-Controlled Day Care Centers
An audit conducted by the inspector general spotlights severe security gaps in Federal buildings with day care centers. Based on the January 30, 2020 report, 80 out of the 93 facilities evaluated had significant security vulnerabilities. The audit revealed that critical security enhancements are being delayed, compromising the safety of young children and their caregivers.
The General Services Administration (GSA) is the agency under scrutiny. The findings have raised substantial concerns about the safety of about 7,000 children, primarily those of federal employees. Specific vulnerabilities identified include facilities not meeting minimum security standards, placing occupants at potential risk. The report does not disclose specific centers or threats due to the sensitivity of the information.
Recommendations and Funding Needs
Two of the three recommendations made in the report remain open and significant. One recommendation is for the Public Buildings Service (PBS) Commissioner to address specific vulnerabilities identified by the OIG. Another calls for a comprehensive assessment to identify security vulnerabilities at each child care center in GSA-controlled buildings, and to expedite actions to upgrade these buildings to meet minimum security standards.
GSA management has agreed with the recommendations and has initiated comprehensive security evaluations. They acknowledge the need for additional funding to meet these security standards. The GSA is committed to addressing necessary countermeasures and will work closely with sponsoring agencies for both funding and implementation. They may consider relocating or closing centers where improvements are cost-prohibitive.
Potential Risks and Legislative Actions
The delay in implementing vital security updates heightens risks for the young children and their caregivers in these federally managed buildings. Legislative auditors have also called for the attorney general’s office to investigate a statewide child care grant program for potential civil or criminal violations, underscoring the widespread issues with child care safety and funding.
The need for addressing these vulnerabilities is paramount, as failure to do so endangers the well-being of thousands of children. The GSA must secure funding and work diligently to implement the recommended security upgrades without further delay. Otherwise, they risk not only safety violations but also the trust of federal employees who rely on these facilities for their children’s care.
