Press Release: 2025-01-28

IG Shapiro's Statement on the Firing of Federal Inspectors General

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

1/27/2025

MEDIA CONTACT

Carrie Kimball, Communications Officer

 Phone

Call Carrie Kimball, Communications Officer at 617-722-8894

 Online

Email Carrie Kimball, Communications Officer at carrie.c.kimball@mass.gov

BOSTON, MA — “While it is prerogative of any incoming president to make personnel changes, the law matters and must be followed.  The abrupt dismissal of more than a dozen federal inspectors general, without 30-day notice to Congress and an explanation violates the law. Further, it undermines the independence that inspectors general need to safeguard federal resources from fraud, waste and abuse. I stand in support of those inspectors general who were fired,” Inspector General Jeffrey S. Shapiro said.

“The office that I am privileged to lead is the first statewide inspector general in the nation. The Governor, Attorney General and State Auditor appoint the inspector general who can only be removed for cause. In this way, my office functions independently and is non-partisan. We investigate allegations of fraud, waste and abuse of public resources without fear or favor.  This is hallmark of American democracy and must be preserved.” IG Shapiro said.

IG Shapiro was recently elected to the board of the Association of Inspectors General.