GAO report on CFPB: "Additional Actions Needed to Support a Fair and Inclusive Workplace"

In light about discrimination and retaliation at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and concerns about CFPB’s management practices and culture, the Government Accountability Office was asked to review personnel management and organizational culture issues at the CFPB.

This week, GAO released its report, examining (1) CFPB employees’ views on these issues and (2) CFPB’s efforts to strengthen personnel management and culture, among other objectives."

GAO’s survey found heightened concerns related to fair treatment, trust that employees can raise concerns without fear of reprisal, confidence in complaint processes, and other matters. For survey items on these issues, more than 25 percent of respondents bureau-wide had unfavorable views, and dissatisfaction was above 35 percent in some CFPB offices and demographic groups.

GAO made two recommendations to improve CFPB’s personnel management efforts, including developing a strategy for reporting on progress and creating feedback tools on its grievance processes in coordination with its employee union.

The GAO report is here.