2024-08-22 OIG Letter to EPA Contractors

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reminding EPA contractors of their responsibilities to report suspected fraud and other improper conduct. The letter outlines the requirements for contractors to disclose credible evidence of violations of federal criminal law and to inform their employees of whistleblower rights and protections. The OIG encourages contractors to report any suspected fraudulent or improper conduct relating to EPA contracts. Key points include: • Contractors must conduct themselves with the highest degree of integrity and honesty. • Contractors may be subject to the Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct, which requires disclosure of credible evidence of violations of federal criminal law. • Contractors must inform their employees of whistleblower rights and protections under 41 U.S.C. § 4712. • The OIG will protect the confidentiality of complainants to the maximum extent permitted by law.