When completed, all audit reports are issued publicly, and the audit workpapers are available for public review by written request to the State Auditor. The Bureau of State Audits is responsible for the Single Audit of California that is mandated by the federal government. The Bureau performs other related assignments, including performance audits, that are mandated by statute. Work for the Bureau of State Audits can be included in assembly and senate bills, supplemental language and the budget act. The State whistleblower program, another mandated responsibility for the Bureau, has generated thousands of phone calls to its toll-free hotline that have resulted in improved government operations, the punishment of wrongdoers and the collection of millions of dollars of state funds.
Investigations range from embezzlement to the misuse of state telephones.
State law provides complete anonymity and protection to complainants. While an investigation is in progress, a complainant will not be informed of the status of the complaint. Until an allegation is substantiated, all investigative work is confidential.