Civilian and Contractor Workforces: Complete Information Needed to Assess the Department of Defense's Progress for Reductions and Associated Savings

Abstract

The Department of Defense's (DOD) September 2014 and February 2015 reports did not fully address most statutory requirements identified in section 955 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2013. With long-term fiscal challenges likely to continue, DOD must operate strategically and efficiently, including through cost-effective management of its human capital. Section 955 of the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2013 required DOD to, among other things, develop and implement a plan to achieve savings in the total funding for civilian and contractor workforces from fiscal years 2012 through 2017. Section 955 also includes a provision that GAO review each of the Section 955 reports DOD submits to Congress to determine whether the required savings are being achieved and whether the plan is being implemented consistently with workforce-management laws. This report addresses the extent to which (1) DOD, as shown in its September 2014 and February 2015 reports, is meeting the requirements specified in section 955 and (2) has achieved the cost savings required under section 955 and identified the savings in these reports. GAO reviewed the two reports DOD has submitted to Congress and supporting documents and interviewed cognizant officials.