Know your vote. Take a look at your sample ballot now!

Connecticut oversight of federal grants

From Ballotpedia
Jump to: navigation, search
Federalism Banner-Blue.png
Federalism
Federalism Icon 200x200.png

Key terms
Court cases
Major arguments
State responses to federal mandates
State oversight of federal grants
Federalism by the numbers
Index
See also: State oversight of federal grants

Federal grants make up a significant portion of state budgets, providing funding for programs in health care, education, infrastructure, and public assistance.[1][2] These funds are typically accompanied by policy conditions or reporting requirements that shape how states implement federally funded programs. In response, states have developed varying oversight systems to review, approve, and monitor the use of federal funding.

This page summarizes federal grant funding and oversight in Connecticut. It includes data on how federal dollars contribute to the state budget, highlights Connecticut’s position relative to other states, and analyzes key laws related to grant coordination, transparency, and accountability. This research was last updated in December 2025.

HIGHLIGHTS
  • In fiscal year 2023, 31.1% of Connecticut’s total state revenue came from intergovernmental sources—primarily federal grants—the 8th-lowest share nationwide. The state received approximately $11.8 billion in federal funds.[1]
  • Connecticut law assigns federal grant oversight across multiple entities, giving the governor authority to apply for and administer funds, directing the Office of Policy and Management to coordinate and advise on federal impacts, requiring legislative committees to review grant applications and block grant allocations, mandating audits by the Auditors of Public Accounts, and establishing reporting systems to track grant funding and revenue maximization.
  • Connecticut’s federal grants inventory statute specifically tasks the Office of Policy and Management with maintaining a centralized system to track federal and alternative grants, coordinating with agency liaisons, and reporting annually to the legislature on efforts to increase non-state revenue.
  • This article includes information about the following topics:

    Background

    Federal grants are a major source of funding for state governments, supporting programs in areas such as health care, education, transportation, and public assistance.[2] These funds are distributed through a variety of mechanisms—including block grants, categorical grants, and formula-based programs—and are typically accompanied by policy conditions, reporting requirements, or other administrative mandates.

    Federal grants are reported as part of a state’s intergovernmental revenue, a category tracked annually by the United States Census Bureau. Intergovernmental revenue includes funds transferred from both federal and local governments, but federal sources account for the vast majority. In 2022, approximately 98% of intergovernmental revenue received by states came from the federal government.[3] In 2023—the most recent year for which data is available—states collectively received about $1.12 trillion in intergovernmental revenue, representing 36.7% of all general revenue.[1]

    Because of the scale and conditional nature of federal funding, many states have adopted statutory and administrative frameworks to oversee how agencies apply for, accept, and manage federal grants. States vary widely in how these frameworks are structured, with some centralizing authority in executive agencies and others distributing responsibilities across legislative, budget, and oversight bodies; collectively, these arrangements define the state's oversight of federal grant activity. These frameworks reflect broader federalism concerns—such as how states balance fiscal dependence with administrative autonomy, and how they respond to federal mandates that may influence state policy priorities.

    This research was last updated in December 2025.

    Top federal funding programs to states

    In fiscal year 2023, the federal government distributed over $1 trillion in grants to states. The largest programs through which states received federal funding were Medicaid, highway funding, rental assistance, and child nutrition. Medicaid alone accounted for 56.8% of federal grants to states, and the top 20 programs combined made up approximately 87.8% of total federal grant outlays to states.[4]


    Federal funding to Connecticut

    Amount of federal grants to Connecticut

    In 2023, Connecticut received approximately $11.8 billion in intergovernmental revenue out of a total $15.1 billion in state revenue, the 20th-lowest nationwide.[1] The national average was approximately $22.3 billion per state. Across all states, intergovernmental revenue totaled about $1.12 trillion out of $3.04 trillion in general revenue.[1] In 2022, approximately 98% of intergovernmental revenue states received came from the federal government.[3]


    Percentage of Connecticut budget funded by the federal government

    In fiscal year 2023, 31.1% of Connecticut’s total state revenue came from intergovernmental sources—primarily federal grants—compared to 36.7% for state governments nationwide.[1] Connecticut had the 8th-lowest percentage of state revenue funded by the federal government.


    Intergovernmental revenue by state

    This table shows the percentage and amount of each state's total revenue that came from intergovernmental sources—primarily federal grants—in fiscal year 2023. It lists states in descending order by the share of revenue from these sources and includes total state revenue, intergovernmental revenue, and the percentage for each state. The data highlights how dependent each state is on federal funding as a portion of its overall budget.

    Intergovernmental revenue by state, 2023
    StateTotal revenue (thousands)Intergovernmental revenue (thousands)Percent
    Louisiana$44,396,718$22,899,72051.6%
    Arizona$60,891,976$29,948,01649.2%
    Missouri$45,073,525$20,888,65346.3%
    Wyoming$8,357,625$3,792,59045.4%
    Alaska$11,883,137$5,341,73245.0%
    Montana$10,689,677$4,710,01344.1%
    Kentucky$46,180,553$20,254,29043.9%
    Mississippi$26,046,854$11,310,57143.4%
    Rhode Island$12,286,091$5,288,13643.0%
    Oklahoma$37,833,350$16,255,25343.0%
    West Virginia$18,871,691$8,025,29642.5%
    Tennessee$48,344,600$20,223,94741.8%
    South Dakota$6,278,267$2,570,81840.9%
    Arkansas$29,702,938$12,104,41440.8%
    Georgia$70,031,565$28,344,73140.5%
    Indiana$62,196,503$25,102,74340.4%
    Alabama$44,884,391$17,879,38939.8%
    Maine$13,604,269$5,360,43139.4%
    New Hampshire$10,340,297$4,052,06639.2%
    South Carolina$46,113,727$17,785,65638.6%
    Nebraska$15,493,777$5,972,77838.5%
    Texas$213,481,319$82,164,79738.5%
    Pennsylvania$127,986,754$49,211,83238.5%
    Ohio$98,348,911$37,785,73438.4%
    Florida$141,946,520$53,706,46637.8%
    New York$259,552,404$96,814,83937.3%
    Michigan$90,192,191$33,060,73636.7%
    Vermont$9,063,120$3,293,53136.3%
    Colorado$41,909,412$15,138,04336.1%
    Maryland$58,597,846$21,004,25435.8%
    North Carolina$81,064,214$28,814,15335.5%
    Oregon$51,612,303$17,510,54333.9%
    New Mexico$40,359,510$13,628,89333.8%
    Nevada$24,219,218$8,040,10133.2%
    Iowa$31,265,753$10,333,64233.1%
    Washington$74,164,396$24,480,10233.0%
    California$417,100,727$137,666,81333.0%
    Minnesota$60,090,592$19,468,58232.4%
    Illinois$111,409,197$35,838,93132.2%
    Wisconsin$49,805,740$15,984,04232.1%
    Massachusetts$80,850,200$25,519,88031.6%
    New Jersey$100,285,531$31,191,18031.1%
    Connecticut$38,016,037$11,800,02131.0%
    Idaho$14,453,559$4,456,68630.8%
    Delaware$13,462,717$4,105,55230.5%
    Virginia$81,975,174$23,958,77529.2%
    North Dakota$10,349,350$2,876,34627.8%
    Utah$31,293,027$8,603,74427.5%
    Kansas$27,507,628$7,524,38227.4%
    Hawaii$19,221,682$5,057,22626.3%

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Annual Survey of State Government Finances


    Connecticut statutes on federal grant oversight

    Many states have statutory provisions that govern the oversight, approval, transparency, and auditing of federal grants received within the state. These laws typically assign responsibilities to executive agencies, the governor’s office, and the legislature to ensure proper management and accountability of federal funds. This research was last updated in December 2025.

    Executive oversight of federal grants

    Executive oversight of federal grants refers to statutes that assign responsibility to the governor’s office to review, approve, coordinate, or manage federal grants across the state.

    Connecticut § 4-28 assigned an oversight role to the Governor. This statute authorized the governor, as the state’s administrative agent, to apply for, receive, and administer federal funds and to designate state agencies to implement federal grant requirements.[5]


    (a) The Governor is designated, as administrative agent of the state, to apply for any funds or other aid for new construction, reconstruction and equipment for state institutions, for The University of Connecticut and for any other purpose which the Congress of the United States has authorized or may authorize the federal government to grant to the several states. The Governor, or any other officer of the state designated in any Act passed by the Congress of the United States, is authorized, in the name of the state, to make all applications and sign all documents necessary to obtain such aid from the United States or any agency thereof. The Treasurer is directed to receive all funds granted by the United States, or by any agency thereof, and to hold the same separate from all other funds of the state. Such funds shall be disbursed by said Treasurer, upon voucher of the Comptroller, under the direction of, and subject to regulations of, the Governor.

    (b) The Governor may designate any commissioner, officer or agency of the state or any group or committee of commissioners or officers of the state as the sole agency of the state, (1) to apply for, accept and expend funds allocated or payable to the state for state, local and other expenditures under any Act of Congress or administrative ruling pursuant thereto, (2) to establish and administer or supervise the administration of any state-wide plan which is now or may hereafter be required as a condition for receipt of federal funds, and (3) to take such other action as may be reasonable and necessary to fulfill the purposes of the federal requirements. Such agency may comply with all administrative requirements, not inconsistent with the laws of the state, imposed as a condition for receipt of said federal funds.[6]

    Connecticut § 4-66c assigned an oversight role to the Office of Policy and Management. This statute required the office to advise the governor and legislature on federal impacts, coordinate and track state and local applications for federal financial assistance, and apply for and administer federal funds on behalf of the state.[7]

    (a) The Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management shall advise the Governor on matters concerning local government including state laws relating to local government, the impact of federal actions or proposed federal actions on local government, the financial needs and resources of local government and the allocation of program and financial responsibility between local government and the state.

    (b) The secretary shall advise the Governor regarding potential federal actions affecting state government and the citizens of the state and shall advise the joint standing committees of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to appropriations and relating to the subject area of each federal policy initiative, including the allocation of resources in the federal budget, federal public assistance policy, federal economic policy and the distribution of federal assistance and facilities among regions and states.

    (c) The secretary may provide planning and management assistance to local governments utilizing such state and federal funds as may be appropriated for such purpose.

    (d) The secretary shall encourage each department of state government which deals with local governments to provide technical assistance in their areas of specialization. The secretary shall advise local officials on programs of state and federal assistance for which local governments are eligible and provide assistance, when requested, in applying for such assistance.

    (e) The secretary shall require that notice be given to him of all applications for federal financial assistance or for any gift, contribution, income from trust funds, or other aid from any private source submitted by the state, or any agency thereof, authorities and development agencies. The secretary may require that notice be given him of all applications for federal financial assistance submitted by municipalities or any agency thereof. The secretary may require that any notice of application for federal financial assistance be accompanied by an urban impact statement, on a form furnished by said secretary, indicating that the project or program for which such application is being made has been reviewed in accordance with the goals set forth in section 4-66b. Ongoing fund-raising from any private source by an institution of higher education shall not constitute an application under the terms of this section.

    (f) The Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management is authorized to do all things necessary to apply for and accept federal funds allotted or available to the state under any federal act or program that could support activities the secretary is authorized to undertake. He shall administer such funds in accordance with state and federal law. The secretary, in consultation with the chief executive officer of Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated, or the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, when applicable, may apply for all federal funds available to the state for defense conversion projects and other projects consistent with a defense conversion strategy.[6]

    Legislative oversight and transparency

    Legislative oversight and transparency refers to statutes requiring reports to or involvement from the legislature in managing or approving federal grants.

    Connecticut § 4-28 assigned an oversight role to the Appropriations Committee of the General Assembly. This statute required state agencies to submit copies or summaries of federal grant applications and notices of awards to the legislature through the Office of Fiscal Analysis, ensuring committee review before submission to the federal government.[8]

    (a) The Governor is designated, as administrative agent of the state, to apply for any funds or other aid for new construction, reconstruction and equipment for state institutions, for The University of Connecticut and for any other purpose which the Congress of the United States has authorized or may authorize the federal government to grant to the several states. The Governor, or any other officer of the state designated in any Act passed by the Congress of the United States, is authorized, in the name of the state, to make all applications and sign all documents necessary to obtain such aid from the United States or any agency thereof. The Treasurer is directed to receive all funds granted by the United States, or by any agency thereof, and to hold the same separate from all other funds of the state. Such funds shall be disbursed by said Treasurer, upon voucher of the Comptroller, under the direction of, and subject to regulations of, the Governor.

    (b) The Governor may designate any commissioner, officer or agency of the state or any group or committee of commissioners or officers of the state as the sole agency of the state, (1) to apply for, accept and expend funds allocated or payable to the state for state, local and other expenditures under any Act of Congress or administrative ruling pursuant thereto, (2) to establish and administer or supervise the administration of any state-wide plan which is now or may hereafter be required as a condition for receipt of federal funds, and (3) to take such other action as may be reasonable and necessary to fulfill the purposes of the federal requirements. Such agency may comply with all administrative requirements, not inconsistent with the laws of the state, imposed as a condition for receipt of said federal funds.

    (c) A copy of any application made by a state agency under the provisions of this section or under the authority of any other section of the general statutes, or a detailed summary thereof, except applications for research grants by educational institutions, shall be submitted, through the Office of Fiscal Analysis, to the joint standing committee of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to appropriations and the budgets of state agencies, together with any plans or amendments, prior to submission of such application to the federal government. Notice of grant awards, except awards for research grants to educational institutions, which the state receives shall be sent to the committee, through the Office of Fiscal Analysis upon notification to the state of such award by the federal government.

    (d) For the purposes of encouraging and facilitating the development and implementation of area-wide waste treatment management plans pursuant to the federal Water Pollution Control Act, the Governor may designate (1) the boundaries of one or more waste treatment management planning areas within the state and (2) a single representative organization, including but not limited to appointed and elected officials from state, regional or local governments, or their designees, capable of developing effective area-wide waste treatment management plans for such areas. Upon the designation of that organization, notice thereof shall be given to the Legislative Committee on State Planning and Development established pursuant to section 4-60d, and the organization shall every six months thereafter submit a report on its activities to the Governor and to that committee. [6]


    Connecticut § 4-28b assigned an oversight role to the Appropriations Committee and subject-matter committees of the General Assembly. This statute required the Governor to submit recommended allocations of federal block grant funds for legislative review and approval, and further required committee approval for significant transfers between allocations.[9]

    Notwithstanding any provision of the general statutes: (1) If, during any fiscal year, the state receives federal block grant funds, the Governor shall submit recommended allocations of such funds to the speaker of the House of Representatives and the president pro tempore of the Senate. Within five days of receipt of the recommendations, the speaker and the president pro tempore shall submit the recommended allocations to the joint standing committee of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to appropriations and the budgets of state agencies and to the joint standing committee or committees of the General Assembly having cognizance of the subject matter relating to such recommended allocations, as determined by the speaker and the president pro tempore. Within thirty days of their receipt of the Governor's recommended allocations, the committee having cognizance of matters relating to appropriations and the budgets of state agencies, in concurrence with the committee or committees of cognizance, shall advise the Governor of their approval or modifications, if any, of such recommended allocations. If the joint standing committees do not concur, the committee chairpersons shall appoint a committee on conference which shall be comprised of three members from each joint standing committee. At least one member appointed from each committee shall be a member of the minority party. The report of the committee on conference shall be made to each committee, which shall vote to accept or reject the report. The report of the committee on conference may not be amended. If a joint standing committee rejects the report of the committee on conference, the Governor's recommended allocations shall be deemed approved. If the joint standing committees accept the report, the committee having cognizance of matters relating to appropriations and the budgets of state agencies shall advise the Governor of their approval or modifications, if any, of such recommended allocations, provided if the committees do not act within thirty days, the recommended allocations shall be deemed approved. Disbursement of such funds shall be in accordance with the Governor's recommended allocations as approved or modified by the committees. After such recommended allocations have been so approved or modified, any proposed transfer to or from any specific allocation of a sum or sums of over fifty thousand dollars or ten per cent of any such specific allocation, whichever is less, shall be submitted by the Governor to the speaker and the president pro tempore and approved, modified or rejected by the committees in accordance with the procedures set forth in this subdivision. Notification of all transfers made shall be sent to the joint standing committee of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to appropriations and the budgets of state agencies and to the committee or committees of cognizance, through the Office of Fiscal Analysis; (2) if, during any fiscal year, federal funding for programs financed by state appropriations with federal reimbursements is reduced below the amounts estimated under the provisions of section 2-35, the Governor shall submit recommendations to the joint standing committee having cognizance of matters relating to appropriations and the budgets of state agencies and to the committee of cognizance, for legislation necessary to modify funding for such programs consistent with such reductions in federal funding.[6]

    Audit and financial oversight

    Audit and financial oversight refers to statutes related to auditing, financial tracking, or compliance for federal funds.

    Connecticut § 7-396a assigned an audit oversight role to the Auditors of Public Accounts. This statute requires that any public or private agency receiving a state grant must allow audits, grant the auditors access to records, and file copies of those audits with the Auditors of Public Accounts[10]


    (a) Any agreement for a state grant entered into between a state agency and a public or private agency shall provide for an audit acceptable to such state agency of any grant expenditures made by such public or private agency and, unless otherwise provided by the state agency, the cost of such audit may be considered an allowable expense under such grant agreement. The Auditors of Public Accounts shall have access to all records and accounts of such public or private agency for the fiscal year in which such grant is made. A copy of any audit performed under the provisions of this section shall be filed with the Auditors of Public Accounts.

    (b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) of this section, in the case of an agreement for a state grant entered into between a state agency and a public or private agency where the state agency has received funding for such grant from the federal government, the cost of any required audit shall be considered an allowable expense under such grant agreement, provided the cost of such audit is an allowable expense under the federal grant regulations.[6]

    Agency oversight of federal grants

    Agency oversight of federal grant applications refers to statutes that establish procedures or requirements for how state agencies request or acknowledge federal funding.

    Connecticut § 4-31d assigned an oversight role to the Office of Policy and Management. This statute required OPM to develop a system to track the state’s federal and alternative grant funding, designate agency liaisons to share grant application information, and submit annual reports to the legislature and the Auditors of Public Accounts on efforts to maximize revenues.[11]

    a) The Office of Policy and Management shall, within available resources, (1) develop a system to track the state's federal and alternative grant funding; and (2) work in consultation with other state agencies to pursue specific federal revenue maximization efforts.

    (b) The Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management shall identify for which state agencies it is appropriate to have an employee designated to serve as the liaison with the office regarding federal and alternative funding. Each agency so identified shall designate such a liaison. Each such liaison shall ensure that the office has access to information regarding all grant applications that have been submitted by the agency of such liaison that the office requires to maintain the tracking system developed pursuant to subsection (a) of this section.

    (c) The Office of Policy and Management shall, on or before November 15, 2014, and annually thereafter, submit to the joint standing committees of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to finance, revenue and bonding and appropriations and the budgets of state agencies in accordance with the provisions of section 11-4a, and post on said office's Internet web site, a report on the office's efforts to maximize alternative revenues. The office shall also submit such report to the Auditors of Public Accounts.[6]

    How does Connecticut compare to other states?

    This section provides an overview of how states conduct oversight of federal grants, including gubernatorial approval, legislative authority, agency coordination, public transparency, and state contingency planning. It includes summaries, comparative maps, and detailed tables showing how all 50 states structure each type of oversight. For specific details and information about a state, click here.

    • Summary table showing how each state structures its oversight of federal grants.
    • Whether governors must approve federal grant applications or have no required approval role.
    • Whether legislatures must approve federal grants or have no statutory approval authority.
    • How states assign grant-management duties to central agencies or multiple agencies.
    • Whether states require public reporting, hearings, or transparency for federal grant activity.
    • States that require agencies to prepare plans for reduced or denied federal funds.

    State-by-state summary of federal grants oversight

    This table provides a state-by-state overview of how each state oversees federal grants, summarizing the key statutes, agencies, and approval processes involved in managing federal funds.

    State oversight of federal grants
    StateState oversight
    AlabamaAlabama law placed federal grant oversight under the Governor of Alabama through the Office of State Planning and Federal Programs and the Executive Budget Office, which coordinate, report, and evaluate federal funding, with legislative review provided by the Legislative Council.
    AlaskaAlaska law centralized federal grant oversight under the Governor of Alaska, requiring all federal funds to be included in the state budget and reviewed through the Office of Management and Budget as part of the regular executive planning and legislative appropriation process.
    ArizonaArizona law centralized federal grant oversight under the Governor of Arizona and the Governor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Budgeting, which coordinated, reviewed, and reported on federal aid programs. The Arizona State Legislature maintained oversight through required reports detailing all federal grants received.
    ArkansasArkansas law assigned the Governor limited oversight of federal programs through the Office of State-Federal Relations and required all agency grant applications to be reviewed by the Department of Finance and Administration before submission, with the General Assembly retaining final approval through the appropriation of federal funds.
    CaliforniaCalifornia law divided federal grant oversight among four entities: the Office of Planning and Research, the Department of Finance, the California Controller, and the California State Auditor, which together coordinated, approved, reported on, and audited federal grant activity.
    ColoradoColorado law authorized the Office of State Planning and Budgeting, with the governor’s approval, to receive and administer federal funds; required the General Assembly to appropriate block grant moneys; and directed agencies to submit annual grant reports to the Joint Budget Committee, with additional audits by the Colorado Auditor and annual expenditure reporting by the State Controller.
    ConnecticutConnecticut law assigns federal grant oversight across multiple entities, giving the governor authority to apply for and administer funds, directing the Office of Policy and Management to coordinate federal impacts, requiring legislative committees to review grant applications and block grant allocations, mandating audits by the Auditors of Public Accounts, and establishing statewide grant-tracking and revenue-maximization systems.
    DelawareDelaware law divided federal grant oversight among the State Clearinghouse Committee, the State Treasurer, and the State Auditor. The Clearinghouse Committee reviewed, approved, and held public hearings on grant applications, and agencies were required to submit contingency plans and revert unused funds when federal support declined.
    FloridaFlorida law integrated federal grant oversight across the governor’s office, the legislature, the Chief Financial Officer, and state agencies, combining coordination, approval, appropriation, compliance monitoring, and internal reporting.
    GeorgiaGeorgia law authorized the Governor of Georgia to enter agreements and take actions to secure and administer federal grants; required agencies to notify budget offices and the legislature before seeking new federal assistance; required fiscal impact review; and mandated that the Department of Audits and Accounts maintain a public website detailing expenditures and audits.
    HawaiiHawaii law established an Office of Federal Programs Coordinator under the governor to manage federal grant relations; authorized agencies to accept and administer federal grants with available matching funds; and assigned the attorney general and director of finance responsibility for securing federal aid.
    IdahoIdaho law assigned federal grant oversight to the Division of Financial Management, requiring annual agency reports on federal funds, including use, expiration, and obligations, and requiring contingency planning for federal reductions.
    IllinoisIllinois’s Grant Accountability and Transparency Act centralizes federal grant oversight under the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget and its Grant Accountability and Transparency Unit, requiring statewide compliance, auditing, annual reporting, and public access to grant records.
    IndianaIndiana law centralizes federal grant oversight in the State Budget Agency, which reports annually to the governor and legislature, approves all federal assistance applications, coordinates biennial federal program reviews, and ensures federal funds do not create unfunded state obligations.
    IowaIowa law created the Office of Grants Enterprise Management to track and report federal grants to the legislature, and Senate File 626 (2025) established contingency procedures requiring legislative notification when federal block grant amounts change.
    KansasKansas law requires both the Governor of Kansas and a majority of legislative members on the State Finance Council to approve federal grant spending, with the Department of Administration conducting compliance audits.
    KentuckyKentucky law assigns federal grant oversight to the Finance and Administration Cabinet for executive coordination and to the Legislative Research Commission for review, reporting, and auditing of federal funds.
    LouisianaLouisiana law assigns federal grant reporting and coordination responsibilities to the Division of Administration, which reviews and records state and local applications for federal assistance and tracks federal agency actions; statutes do not assign explicit oversight authority to the governor or legislature.
    MaineMaine law requires legislative approval and detailed reporting for all federal fund expenditures, and directs state officials—including the governor—to file post-disbursement reports documenting how federal funds were used.
    MarylandMaryland law authorized the governor to propose block grant participation policies, required the legislature to review and comment on these proposals, and empowered the Department of Planning to establish reporting requirements for all federal grants.
    MassachusettsMassachusetts law assigns federal grant oversight to the Comptroller and the Secretary of Administration and Finance, requiring them to regulate agency applications, oversee reporting, provide quarterly updates to House and Senate Ways and Means Committees, and publish an audited annual report on all federal funds.
    MichiganMichigan law centralizes federal grant oversight in the Department of Management and Budget, which receives agency notifications of all federal applications, reports new grants to the Legislature before commitment, and provides semiannual estimates of federal revenues by program.
    MinnesotaMinnesota law authorized the Legislative Advisory Commission to review and issue nonbinding recommendations on federal fund expenditure requests but did not assign grant-oversight authority to the governor or executive agencies.
    MississippiMississippi law authorized the Executive Director of the Department of Finance and Administration to approve new federally funded positions, required the Legislative Budget Office to review federal applications, and empowered the State Auditor to audit grant recipients and recover audit costs through a dedicated accountability fund.
    MissouriMissouri law assigns federal grant oversight to the Budget Director, legislative committees, and statewide public reporting systems. Agencies must submit grant applications to multiple budget and legislative officials, and large federal grants must be publicly disclosed on the Missouri Accountability Portal.
    MontanaMontana law designated the state treasurer as the fiscal officer responsible for receiving and managing federal funds and required the legislative auditor to conduct annual audits of federal financial assistance.
    NebraskaNebraska law requires agencies to submit biennial federal funding inventories to the Department of Administrative Services; authorizes the Legislative Fiscal Analyst to track federal revenue trends; and empowers the Auditor of Public Accounts to audit all federal funds appropriated to state programs.
    NevadaNevada centralizes federal grant oversight in the Office of Federal Assistance, which coordinates applications, tracks unspent funds, and reports grant activity to the Legislative Counsel Bureau.
    New HampshireNew Hampshire law requires both the governor and the Fiscal Committee of the General Court to approve major federal grant expenditures, and empowers the Legislative Budget Assistant to audit federally funded programs.
    New JerseyNew Jersey law assigns federal grant oversight to the Director of the Grants Management Office, who coordinates applications, oversees grant compliance and audits, and maintains a statewide database of active federal awards. Agencies seeking unappropriated federal funds must notify key legislative budget officials before applying.
    New MexicoNew Mexico law tasks the State Auditor with annual audits of all state agencies, including those receiving federal funds, and directs the Department of Finance and Administration to assist with and review federal grant applications.
    New YorkNew York law requires agencies to notify the Division of the Budget before applying for federal grants; designates the Department of Taxation and Finance as custodian of federal funds; and authorizes the Comptroller to audit and disburse those funds.
    North CarolinaNorth Carolina law requires agencies to notify the governor before applying for or receiving federal grants; mandates that federal funds be deposited in the state treasury and appropriated by the legislature; and authorizes the State Auditor to audit any entity receiving federal funds.
    North DakotaNorth Dakota law requires agencies to report federal grant applications to the Office of Management and Budget, which reports to the legislature; directs the State Auditor to audit all state financial transactions; and requires agencies to ensure federal grants do not impose excessive oversight or conflict with legislative intent.
    OhioOhio law authorizes the governor to commit the state to federal programs and designate administering agencies; requires the General Assembly to appropriate or approve all federal expenditures; and empowers the Auditor to audit all public offices receiving federal money.
    OklahomaOklahoma law requires agency federal grant applications over $100,000 to be approved by Cabinet Secretaries and the Secretary of Budget; empowers the Auditor and a joint legislative committee to conduct audits and investigations; requires public disclosure of all federal funds; and mandates that federal money flow through the state treasurer.
    OregonOregon law authorizes the governor to apply for and disburse federal funds; requires the Legislative Assembly or Emergency Board to approve related expenditures; and empowers the Department of Administrative Services to review, modify, or approve agency grant requests before submission.
    PennsylvaniaPennsylvania law authorizes the Governor’s Office of Policy and Planning to apply for, receive, administer, and use federal grants and other federal financial assistance.
    Rhode IslandRhode Island law gives the controller authority over federal grant applications, requires the General Assembly to appropriate all federal funds, directs the Auditor General to conduct financial and compliance audits, and authorizes the Office of Management and Budget to approve grant requests requiring state matching funds.
    South CarolinaSouth Carolina law assigns federal grant oversight to the governor, the legislature, the Comptroller General, and the State Treasurer, combining budgeting, appropriation, audit, and financial management responsibilities.
    South DakotaSouth Dakota law assigns federal grant oversight to the governor, the legislature’s Special Committee on Appropriations, and the State Auditor, requiring approval for federal funds exceeding the appropriations act and reporting on federal grant program audits.
    TennesseeTennessee law assigns federal grant oversight to the governor, the Fiscal Review Committee, the Office of Legislative Budget Analysis, the Comptroller of the Treasury, and the Commissioner of Finance and Administration, combining executive approval with legislative monitoring and compliance oversight.
    TexasTexas law assigns federal grant oversight to the Governor’s Division of Planning and Coordination and the Governor’s Office of Budget and Planning; authorizes the Comptroller and State Auditor to manage and audit federal funds; requires fiscal review of federal programs; and mandates public hearings on intended uses of federal block grant funds.
    UtahUtah law requires agencies to obtain the governor’s approval before applying for or accepting new federal grants; requires legislative approval through appropriations; and assigns the State Auditor responsibility for compliance and financial oversight.
    VermontVermont law requires the governor to approve federal grants; authorizes the Joint Fiscal Committee or legislature to review or override those decisions; directs the Auditor of Accounts to audit federal programs; and requires the Department of Finance and Management to publish an annual public report of all grants.
    VirginiaVirginia law allows agencies to manage federal grants, requires the Department of Planning and Budget to monitor fiscal impacts, authorizes the Auditor of Public Accounts to audit federal programs, and requires agencies to report major grants annually to finance officials and legislators.
    WashingtonWashington law requires agencies to manage federal grants and report major awards to finance officials; assigns fiscal impact monitoring to the planning and budget office; and mandates biennial compliance audits by the Auditor of Public Accounts.
    West VirginiaWest Virginia law requires the Secretary of Revenue to approve and report federal grant activity to the governor; subjects most federal funds to legislative appropriation; and directs the State Auditor to oversee audits and maintain a public database of state and federally funded grants.
    WisconsinWisconsin law authorizes the governor to accept and administer federal grant money; requires agencies to report federal grant applications to the legislature; and requires departments to notify the State Auditor when accepting federal funds that may require auditing services.
    WyomingWyoming law authorizes the governor to approve applications for federal aid and the acceptance and expenditure of federal funds beyond annual appropriations; subjects federal funds to the legislature’s appropriations bill; and requires biennial audits of federally aided agencies by the State Auditor.


    Gubernatorial approval of federal grants

    States adopt different models for how governors participate in federal grant activity. In some states, governors must directly review or approve grant applications, while in others their role is limited to coordination, budget planning, or information-sharing. Many states assign primary authority elsewhere—such as legislatures, agencies, or budget offices—leaving governors without a required approval role.

    • Explicit approval: 16 states require governors to formally approve grant applications or the acceptance of federal funds, giving them direct authority over whether federal money enters the state system.
    • Partial or indirect approval: 16 states involve governors in coordination, notification, or budget oversight roles, but do not require them to approve individual grants.
    • No explicit approval: 18 states assign approval and management responsibilities to agencies, budget offices, or legislatures, leaving governors with no required sign-off role on federal grants.

    Governor approval of federal grants
    StateGovernor approvalShort description
    AlabamaPartial or indirect approvalGovernor oversees federal programs through planning and budget offices; legislature reviews.
    AlaskaPartial or indirect approvalGovernor oversees budget integration of all federal funds; legislative appropriation required.
    ArizonaPartial or indirect approvalGovernor’s budget office coordinates and reviews federal aid; legislature receives detailed reports.
    ArkansasPartial or indirect approvalGovernor has limited oversight; finance department reviews, legislature approves appropriations.
    CaliforniaPartial or indirect approvalGovernor appoints grant administrator; finance department approves agency requests and reporting.
    ColoradoExplicit approvalGovernor must approve receipt and administration of federal funds through budget office.
    ConnecticutExplicit approvalGovernor authorized to apply for and administer federal funds; office coordinates and reports.
    DelawareNo explicit approvalState Clearinghouse Committee reviews and approves grants; governor not directly involved.
    FloridaExplicit approvalGovernor’s office coordinates and approves agency grant requests; legislature controls appropriations.
    GeorgiaExplicit approvalGovernor authorized to secure and administer federal grants; agencies must notify legislature.
    HawaiiPartial or indirect approvalFederal programs office under governor manages relations; agencies may apply independently.
    IdahoNo explicit approvalDivision of Financial Management oversees reporting and contingency plans; governor not mentioned.
    IllinoisPartial or indirect approvalGovernor receives annual reports; management office coordinates compliance and transparency.
    IndianaPartial or indirect approvalBudget agency approves federal assistance applications; governor receives annual reports.
    IowaNo explicit approvalGrants office tracks and reports; legislative notification required for changes in grant amounts.
    KansasExplicit approvalGovernor and State Finance Council must jointly approve all federal grant spending.
    KentuckyPartial or indirect approvalFinance cabinet coordinates grants; governor’s role not explicitly stated.
    LouisianaNo explicit approvalDivision of Administration manages coordination; no statutory authority for governor oversight.
    MainePartial or indirect approvalGovernor files post-disbursement reports; legislature approves and oversees federal expenditures.
    MarylandPartial or indirect approvalGovernor proposes federal grant policies; legislature reviews and department manages reporting.
    MassachusettsNo explicit approvalComptroller and finance secretary regulate and report grants; governor not mentioned.
    MichiganNo explicit approvalBudget department manages notifications and reports to legislature; governor not specified.
    MinnesotaNo explicit approvalLegislative commission reviews federal fund requests; governor not involved.
    MississippiNo explicit approvalFinance director approves positions funded by grants; no governor approval role noted.
    MissouriNo explicit approvalBudget director and legislature oversee grant disclosure; governor not mentioned.
    MontanaNo explicit approvalTreasurer receives and manages federal funds; legislative auditor conducts annual audits.
    NebraskaNo explicit approvalAdministrative services and auditor track and audit funds; governor not cited.
    NevadaPartial or indirect approvalOffice of Federal Assistance within governor’s office coordinates and reports on grants.
    New HampshireExplicit approvalGovernor and fiscal committee must jointly approve major federal grant expenditures.
    New JerseyNo explicit approvalGrants management office coordinates applications and audits; governor not assigned authority.
    New MexicoPartial or indirect approvalFinance secretary reviews grant applications; audit reports shared with governor and legislature.
    New YorkNo explicit approvalAgencies notify budget division before applying; governor not given direct approval power.
    North CarolinaExplicit approvalAgencies must notify governor before applying for or receiving federal grants.
    North DakotaNo explicit approvalAgencies report to budget office and legislature; governor not part of approval process.
    OhioExplicit approvalGovernor authorized to commit state to federal programs and designate administering agencies.
    OklahomaNo explicit approvalCabinet secretaries and budget office approve large grants; governor not specified.
    OregonExplicit approvalGovernor may apply for and disburse federal funds; expenditures need legislative approval.
    PennsylvaniaExplicit approvalGovernor’s office authorized to apply for, receive, and administer federal grants.
    Rhode IslandNo explicit approvalController and budget office manage grant applications; governor not mentioned.
    South CarolinaPartial or indirect approvalGovernor reviews budget reports and recommends allocations; legislature appropriates all funds.
    South DakotaExplicit approvalGovernor may receive and administer funds; legislature must approve excess appropriations.
    TennesseeExplicit approvalGovernor approves and administers federal funds; legislative offices monitor and report activity.
    TexasPartial or indirect approvalGovernor’s offices coordinate and track grants; comptroller and legislature oversee finances.
    UtahExplicit approvalAgencies must obtain governor’s approval before applying for or accepting new federal grants.
    VermontExplicit approvalGovernor must approve grants; joint fiscal committee may review or override decisions.
    VirginiaNo explicit approvalAgencies manage grants; finance department monitors fiscal impact; governor not referenced.
    WashingtonNo explicit approvalAgencies manage and report grants; governor not included in oversight provisions.
    West VirginiaPartial or indirect approvalSecretary of Revenue reports grant activity to governor; legislature appropriates most funds.
    WisconsinExplicit approvalGovernor authorized to accept and administer federal funds; agencies must notify legislature.
    WyomingExplicit approvalGovernor approves federal aid applications and expenditures beyond annual appropriations.


    State legislative approval of federal grants

    States legislatures also vary in the extent of their authority over federal grants, shaped by each state's preferences for fiscal oversight and interbranch control. In some jurisdictions, lawmakers must approve federal applications or spending before funds can be used, while in others their involvement centers on monitoring, reporting, or fiscal review. A smaller number give legislatures no statutory approval role, leaving acceptance of federal funds largely to executive agencies.

    • Explicit approval: 17 states require legislative bodies—often the full legislature, a fiscal committee, or an emergency board—to formally approve federal grant applications or expenditures, giving lawmakers direct authority over the acceptance and use of federal funds.
    • Partial or indirect approval: 27 states involve legislatures through reporting, notification, fiscal reviews, or ongoing oversight of federal funds, but do not require them to approve specific grants.
    • No explicit approval: Six states assign no statutory approval role to the legislature; federal grants are managed and accepted through executive agencies or central budget offices without legislative sign-off.

    Legislative approval of federal grants
    StateLegislative approvalSummary
    AlabamaPartial or indirect approvalLegislative Council reviews federal funding activity but does not formally approve specific grants.
    AlaskaExplicit approvalLegislature appropriates all federal funds through the regular budget process after executive review.
    ArizonaPartial or indirect approvalArizona Legislature receives detailed reports on all federal grants but lacks direct approval authority.
    ArkansasExplicit approvalGeneral Assembly holds final approval by appropriating federal funds following executive review.
    CaliforniaNo explicit approvalLegislature not assigned a specific approval role; finance and audit offices oversee grants.
    ColoradoExplicit approvalGeneral Assembly appropriates block grant funds; Joint Budget Committee reviews annual federal grant reports.
    ConnecticutPartial or indirect approvalLegislative committees review applications and block grant allocations; auditors and reports support oversight.
    DelawareExplicit approvalState Clearinghouse Committee, including legislative leaders, reviews and approves federal and nonfederal grant applications.
    FloridaExplicit approvalLegislature retains appropriation and review authority over agency federal grant expenditures statewide.
    GeorgiaPartial or indirect approvalAgencies notify legislature before new federal assistance; legislative analyst reviews fiscal impacts.
    HawaiiNo explicit approvalLegislature not mentioned in federal grant oversight; executive agencies manage acceptance and aid.
    IdahoNo explicit approvalLegislature not assigned approval role; executive budget division manages reports and contingency plans.
    IllinoisPartial or indirect approvalIllinois Legislature receives annual grant accountability reports; approval authority concentrated in GOMB and GATU.
    IndianaPartial or indirect approvalIndiana Legislature receives annual reports on federal assistance; Budget Agency approves applications independently.
    IowaPartial or indirect approvalGrants office reports to legislature; contingency law requires legislative notification, not formal approval.
    KansasExplicit approvalState Finance Council, including legislative members, must approve federal grant spending decisions.
    KentuckyPartial or indirect approvalLegislative Research Commission reviews, reports on, and audits federal grants without formal approval power.
    LouisianaNo explicit approvalLegislature given no specific oversight authority; executive Division of Administration coordinates federal assistance.
    MaineExplicit approvalLegislature must approve all federal fund expenditures and receives detailed post-disbursement reports.
    MarylandPartial or indirect approvalMaryland Legislature reviews and comments on block grant policies; agencies follow mandated reporting rules.
    MassachusettsPartial or indirect approvalHouse and Senate Ways and Means receive quarterly grant updates; no statutory approval power.
    MichiganPartial or indirect approvalDepartment of Management and Budget reports new grants and revenue estimates to the Legislature.
    MinnesotaPartial or indirect approvalLegislative Advisory Commission reviews federal fund spending requests and issues nonbinding recommendations.
    MississippiPartial or indirect approvalLegislative Budget Office reviews and comments on federal applications; auditor enforces accountability.
    MissouriPartial or indirect approvalLegislative leaders and fiscal officer receive all grant applications; public portal discloses large awards.
    MontanaNo explicit approvalLegislative auditor conducts annual federal assistance audits; legislature not granted approval role.
    NebraskaPartial or indirect approvalLegislative Fiscal Analyst tracks federal revenue trends; Auditor reviews all federally funded state programs.
    NevadaPartial or indirect approvalLegislative Counsel Bureau receives coordination reports from governor’s Federal Assistance Office on grants.
    New HampshireExplicit approvalLegislative Fiscal Committee jointly approves major federal grant expenditures with the governor.
    New JerseyPartial or indirect approvalLegislative budget director and appropriations chairs receive notice of unappropriated federal grant applications.
    New MexicoPartial or indirect approvalLegislative Finance Committee receives annual audit reports on federally funded agencies for oversight.
    New YorkPartial or indirect approvalLegislative finance committee chairs receive notice of planned federal grant applications and awards.
    North CarolinaExplicit approvalGeneral Assembly appropriates all federal funds; receives treasury deposits and auditor oversight reports.
    North DakotaPartial or indirect approvalOffice of Management and Budget reports grant activity to Legislative Assembly; auditor oversees transactions.
    OhioExplicit approvalOhio General Assembly must appropriate or approve all federal expenditures funded by grants.
    OklahomaPartial or indirect approvalJoint legislative accountability committee audits and investigates federal grants; approval handled by executive officials.
    OregonExplicit approvalLegislative Assembly or Emergency Board approves grant applications and related federal fund expenditures.
    PennsylvaniaNo explicit approvalLegislature not assigned specific approval role; governor’s office administers federal grants.
    Rhode IslandExplicit approvalGeneral Assembly must appropriate all federal funds before expenditure, exercising direct approval authority.
    South CarolinaExplicit approvalSouth Carolina General Assembly must appropriate all federal grant money before expenditure.
    South DakotaExplicit approvalLegislative Special Committee on Appropriations must approve federal funds exceeding general appropriations.
    TennesseePartial or indirect approvalFiscal Review Committee and legislative budget office monitor, analyze, and report federal grants.
    TexasPartial or indirect approvalLegislative Budget Board reviews fiscal impacts and public input on federal block grants.
    UtahExplicit approvalLegislature approves federal grants through appropriations after executive approval and auditor oversight.
    VermontPartial or indirect approvalJoint Fiscal Committee or legislature reviews governor-approved grants and may override decisions.
    VirginiaPartial or indirect approvalLegislative committees receive annual reports on major grants; approval authority remains with agencies.
    WashingtonPartial or indirect approvalLegislative committees are informed of major federal awards; management and approval stay executive.
    West VirginiaExplicit approvalLegislature appropriates most federal funds and relies on statewide grant activity database.
    WisconsinPartial or indirect approvalAgencies must report federal grant applications to legislature; auditor notified of certain funds.
    WyomingExplicit approvalLegislature approves federal funds through annual appropriations; auditor conducts biennial agency audits.


    State agency oversight of federal grants

    States differ in how much responsibility they assign to agencies for managing federal grants, reflecting broader administrative and budgeting structures. Some states concentrate grant oversight in a single statewide agency or budget office, while others distribute tasks such as reporting, coordination, or review across multiple agencies. A minority provide no centralized agency role at all, relying instead on governors, legislatures, or auditors.

    • Centralized agency oversight: 25 states give a single statewide administrative or budget office primary responsibility for coordinating, reviewing, or managing federal grant activity across agencies.
    • Distributed or limited agency oversight: 15 states assign reporting or oversight duties to multiple agencies without designating a central coordinating authority.
    • No defined agency oversight role: 10 states do not assign a central agency any specific grant-management responsibilities.

    State agency oversight of federal grants
    StateAgency oversightSummary
    AlabamaCentralized agency oversightOffice of State Planning and Federal Programs and Executive Budget Office coordinate federal funding.
    AlaskaCentralized agency oversightOffice of Management and Budget reviews all federal funds within statewide budget process.
    ArizonaCentralized agency oversightGovernor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Budgeting centrally coordinates, reviews, and reports on federal aid.
    ArkansasCentralized agency oversightDepartment of Finance and Administration reviews all federal grant applications before submission.
    CaliforniaDistributed or limited agency oversightMultiple agencies share grant coordination, approval, reporting, and audit responsibilities.
    ColoradoCentralized agency oversightOffice of State Planning and Budgeting receives and administers federal funds for state agencies.
    ConnecticutCentralized agency oversightOffice of Policy and Management coordinates federal programs and maintains statewide grant inventory.
    DelawareDistributed or limited agency oversightClearinghouse Committee, Treasurer, and Auditor collectively manage and review federal assistance.
    FloridaDistributed or limited agency oversightGovernor’s office, CFO, and agencies share coordination, approval, and reporting responsibilities.
    GeorgiaDistributed or limited agency oversightAgencies notify budget offices; Department of Audits and Accounts tracks and reports on federal spending.
    HawaiiCentralized agency oversightOffice of Federal Programs Coordinator and finance officials manage statewide federal grant activities.
    IdahoCentralized agency oversightDivision of Financial Management oversees agency reporting and federal funding contingency planning.
    IllinoisCentralized agency oversightGOMB and GATU coordinate statewide federal grant compliance, auditing, and reporting.
    IndianaCentralized agency oversightState Budget Agency approves all federal assistance applications and coordinates biannual program reviews.
    IowaCentralized agency oversightOffice of Grants Enterprise Management tracks and reports federal grants across state agencies.
    KansasDistributed or limited agency oversightDepartment of Administration conducts compliance audits but lacks centralized grant-coordination authority.
    KentuckyCentralized agency oversightFinance and Administration Cabinet provides statewide coordination of federal grant activities.
    LouisianaCentralized agency oversightDivision of Administration reviews, records, and tracks all state and local federal assistance.
    MaineNo defined agency oversight roleState officials file post-disbursement reports; no central agency manages federal grants.
    MarylandDistributed or limited agency oversightDepartment of Planning issues reporting rules but does not centrally manage federal applications.
    MassachusettsCentralized agency oversightComptroller and Administration and Finance oversee statewide federal grant applications and reporting.
    MichiganCentralized agency oversightDepartment of Management and Budget receives notifications and tracks federal revenues statewide.
    MinnesotaNo defined agency oversight roleOversight handled by legislative bodies; no central executive agency manages federal grants.
    MississippiDistributed or limited agency oversightFinance director and Legislative Budget Office review applications and positions tied to federal funds.
    MissouriDistributed or limited agency oversightBudget Director, legislative entities, and public portal share oversight of federal grant activity.
    MontanaCentralized agency oversightState treasurer centrally manages receipt and administration of federal funds.
    NebraskaDistributed or limited agency oversightAdministrative Services compiles funding inventories; Auditor reviews federal funds across programs.
    NevadaCentralized agency oversightOffice of Federal Assistance coordinates applications, tracks unspent funds, and reports statewide.
    New HampshireNo defined agency oversight roleOversight assigned to governor and Fiscal Committee; no central agency role identified.
    New JerseyCentralized agency oversightGrants Management Office coordinates applications, oversees compliance, and maintains statewide grant database.
    New MexicoDistributed or limited agency oversightFinance and Administration assists with applications; State Auditor conducts annual federal audits.
    New YorkDistributed or limited agency oversightBudget Division receives notices; Taxation and Finance and Comptroller manage custody and disbursement.
    North CarolinaNo defined agency oversight roleGrant oversight handled by governor, treasury, and auditor; no statewide coordinating agency.
    North DakotaCentralized agency oversightOffice of Management and Budget collects agency grant reports and relays information to legislature.
    OhioNo defined agency oversight roleOversight rests with governor, legislature, and auditor; no central grant-managing agency.
    OklahomaCentralized agency oversightBudget and Cabinet Secretaries review large grants; Treasurer and Auditor manage funds and compliance.
    OregonCentralized agency oversightDepartment of Administrative Services reviews, modifies, and approves federal grant requests statewide.
    PennsylvaniaCentralized agency oversightGovernor’s Office of Policy and Planning centrally applies for, receives, and administers federal grants.
    Rhode IslandCentralized agency oversightController and Office of Management and Budget jointly manage applications and approve matching-fund requests.
    South CarolinaNo defined agency oversight roleOversight handled by governor, legislature, and fiscal officers; no central coordinating agency.
    South DakotaNo defined agency oversight roleGovernor, legislative committee, and Auditor share responsibilities without a central grant agency.
    TennesseeDistributed or limited agency oversightComptroller and Finance and Administration address compliance issues but lack centralized authority.
    TexasCentralized agency oversightGovernor’s planning and budget offices function as statewide grant-coordination and oversight hubs.
    UtahNo defined agency oversight roleGovernor, legislature, and Auditor manage approvals; no centralized agency coordination assigned.
    VermontDistributed or limited agency oversightDepartment of Finance and Management publishes annual grant reports but lacks central authority.
    VirginiaDistributed or limited agency oversightDepartment of Planning and Budget monitors fiscal impacts while agencies manage and report grants.
    WashingtonDistributed or limited agency oversightAgencies manage federal funds; planning and budget office monitors fiscal effects and compliance.
    West VirginiaCentralized agency oversightSecretary of Revenue handles federal grant approvals and reporting; Auditor maintains statewide database.
    WisconsinNo defined agency oversight roleAgencies report grant applications; no central executive agency oversees federal grant management.
    WyomingNo defined agency oversight roleGovernor and legislature control approvals; no statewide administrative grant-management office.


    State public oversight of federal grants

    Public transparency requirements for federal grants differ considerably across states, reflecting varied approaches to openness, accountability, and public engagement. Some states require public access to grant information through hearings, online postings, or searchable databases, giving residents a direct view into how federal funds are used. Others provide only limited transparency, and many do not mandate any public-facing disclosure of federal grant activity.

    • Strong public oversight: Nine states require public hearings, searchable databases, online posting of grant agreements, or other transparency tools that give the public direct access to federal grant information.
    • Limited public oversight: Two states provide some public-facing disclosures—such as published financial reports or audited summaries—but do not require comprehensive public transparency or public input.
    • No defined public oversight: 39 states do not mandate public reporting, public access, or public hearings related to federal grant activity.

    State public oversight of federal grants
    StatePublic oversightSummary
    AlabamaLimited public oversightAgency is tasked with stimulating public interest and participation in federal programs.
    AlaskaNo defined public oversightFederal receipts reports go to budget office and legislators; public access not described.
    ArizonaNo defined public oversightOversight relies on internal reporting to legislature; no public reporting requirements mentioned.
    ArkansasNo defined public oversightOversight handled by finance department and legislature without specified public disclosure mechanisms.
    CaliforniaNo defined public oversightOversight focuses on interagency coordination, finance review, audits; public transparency not specified.
    ColoradoNo defined public oversightAgencies report to Joint Budget Committee and auditor; no public-facing reporting described.
    ConnecticutNo defined public oversightInventory and reporting systems serve governor and legislature; public access not mentioned.
    DelawareStrong public oversightBlock grant applications require public hearings and advance public notice on meeting calendar.
    FloridaNo defined public oversightFederal funding is coordinated and reported internally; statutes do not mention public disclosure.
    GeorgiaStrong public oversightState maintains a free public website showing federal grant expenditures, audits, and pass-throughs.
    HawaiiNo defined public oversightFederal grant relations and aid are managed internally; no public reporting requirement noted.
    IdahoNo defined public oversightAgencies report federal usage and contingencies to financial management; public transparency not described.
    IllinoisStrong public oversightGrant Accountability and Transparency Act provides public access to statewide grant records.
    IndianaNo defined public oversightBudget Agency reports to governor and legislature; no required public disclosure referenced.
    IowaNo defined public oversightGrants office reports to legislature and manages contingencies; public reporting not specified.
    KansasNo defined public oversightFinance Council and administration oversee grants and audits without described public transparency tools.
    KentuckyNo defined public oversightFinance Cabinet and Legislative Research Commission review grants; statutes omit public access provisions.
    LouisianaNo defined public oversightDivision of Administration tracks applications and awards; public reporting is not mentioned.
    MaineNo defined public oversightOfficials file post-disbursement reports and obtain legislative approval; public disclosure not described.
    MarylandNo defined public oversightDepartment of Planning sets reporting rules; texts do not mention public-facing grant information.
    MassachusettsLimited public oversightComptroller publishes an audited annual federal-funds report in addition to legislative updates.
    MichiganNo defined public oversightManagement and Budget reports new grants and revenue estimates internally; public access not specified.
    MinnesotaNo defined public oversightLegislative commission and agency reports focus on internal oversight; public disclosure not described.
    MississippiNo defined public oversightBudget office review and audits emphasize internal accountability, not public reporting requirements.
    MissouriStrong public oversightLarge federal grants must be publicly disclosed on the Missouri Accountability Portal.
    MontanaNo defined public oversightTreasurer and legislative auditor manage federal funds; statutes do not reference public reporting.
    NebraskaNo defined public oversightAdministrative Services inventories funding and auditor reviews programs without stated public transparency.
    NevadaNo defined public oversightFederal Assistance Office reports to Legislative Counsel Bureau; public access requirements not mentioned.
    New HampshireNo defined public oversightGrant approvals and audits involve governor and Fiscal Committee; no public reporting described.
    New JerseyNo defined public oversightGrants Management Office and legislative leaders oversee grants; public transparency not specified.
    New MexicoNo defined public oversightAuditor’s annual reports and finance secretary assistance are described; public access not mentioned.
    New YorkNo defined public oversightBudget, Taxation and Finance, and Comptroller manage grants; statutes omit public-facing requirements.
    North CarolinaNo defined public oversightTreasury deposits and audits ensure control of funds; public reporting is not discussed.
    North DakotaNo defined public oversightManagement and Budget and State Auditor oversee grants; texts do not mention public disclosure.
    OhioNo defined public oversightOversight involves governor, legislature, and auditor; statutes do not specify public access.
    OklahomaStrong public oversightAgencies must publicly disclose all federal funds under their control.
    OregonNo defined public oversightLegislative approval and DAS review are outlined; no public transparency mechanisms described.
    PennsylvaniaNo defined public oversightGovernor’s policy office administers grants; statutes do not reference public reporting.
    Rhode IslandNo defined public oversightController, legislature, auditor, and budget office oversee grants; public disclosure not mentioned.
    South CarolinaNo defined public oversightOversight by governor, legislature, treasurer, and comptroller lacks explicit public-reporting provisions.
    South DakotaStrong public oversightGrant agreements and evaluation reports must be posted on a state transparency website.
    TennesseeNo defined public oversightFiscal review, budget analysis, and audits monitor grants; public-facing requirements not specified.
    TexasStrong public oversightAgencies must hold public hearings statewide on intended block grant uses.
    UtahNo defined public oversightLaws describe approvals and audits; no public-access or hearing requirements are mentioned.
    VermontStrong public oversightState publishes an online grant table; grant reports are expressly public records.
    VirginiaNo defined public oversightAgencies report major grants to finance officials and legislators; public transparency not described.
    WashingtonNo defined public oversightAgencies report major awards; planning and audit functions are internal, not explicitly public-facing.
    West VirginiaStrong public oversightState Auditor maintains a public database of state and federally funded grants.
    WisconsinNo defined public oversightAgencies report applications and notify auditor; texts do not mandate public disclosure.
    WyomingNo defined public oversightOversight centers on governor, legislature, and auditor; public reporting is not addressed.


    State contingency plans for federal grants

    States differ widely in whether they require agencies to prepare contingency plans for potential reductions or loss of federal funds. A small number of states have statutes requiring agencies to draft formal plans, submit mitigation strategies, or manage program adjustments when federal funding is reduced or denied. Most states, however, have no statutory requirement for contingency planning, relying instead on existing budget, audit, or reporting processes.

    • Mandatory contingency plans: Four states require agencies to prepare contingency plans or take specific actions when federal funds are reduced or denied.
    • No mandatory contingency plans: 46 states do not require agencies to develop contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.

    Mandatory contingency plans
    StateMandatory contingency plansSummary
    AlabamaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    AlaskaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    ArizonaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    ArkansasNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    CaliforniaYesAgencies must report denied federal applications and submit plans to secure or resolve issues preventing approval.
    ColoradoNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    ConnecticutNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    DelawareYesState may propose legislation to continue programs and must revert matching funds if federal support ends.
    FloridaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    GeorgiaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    HawaiiNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    IdahoYesAgencies must develop a plan when federal funding for a grant is reduced by 50 percent or more.
    IllinoisNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    IndianaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    IowaYesGovernor must reallocate reduced block-grant funds and notify legislators before implementing changes.
    KansasNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    KentuckyNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    LouisianaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    MaineNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    MarylandNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    MassachusettsNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    MichiganNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    MinnesotaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    MississippiNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    MissouriNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    MontanaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    NebraskaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    NevadaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    New HampshireNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    New JerseyNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    New MexicoNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    New YorkNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    North CarolinaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    North DakotaNoStatutes describe program-specific procedures for federal program termination between legislative sessions.
    OhioNoLaw permits employee furloughs when federal funds are unavailable but requires no agency contingency planning.
    OklahomaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    OregonNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    PennsylvaniaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    Rhode IslandNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    South CarolinaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    South DakotaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    TennesseeNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    TexasNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    UtahNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    VermontNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    VirginiaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    WashingtonNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    West VirginiaNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    WisconsinNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.
    WyomingNoState law does not require agencies to prepare contingency plans for the loss of federal funds.


    State-by-state oversight of federal grants

    This section provides access to all 50 state pages on federal grant oversight. Select a state to see how it reviews, approves, and manages federal funding through its statutes, executive procedures, legislative processes, and reporting requirements.

    Nevada oversight of federal grantsAlaska oversight of federal grantsHawaii oversight of federal grantsArizona oversight of federal grantsUtah oversight of federal grantsNew Mexico oversight of federal grantsColorado oversight of federal grantsWyoming oversight of federal grantsCalifornia oversight of federal grantsOregon oversight of federal grantsWashington oversight of federal grantsIdaho oversight of federal grantsMontana oversight of federal grantsNorth Dakota oversight of federal grantsSouth Dakota oversight of federal grantsNebraska oversight of federal grantsKansas oversight of federal grantsOklahoma oversight of federal grantsTexas oversight of federal grantsMinnesota oversight of federal grantsIowa oversight of federal grantsMissouri oversight of federal grantsArkansas oversight of federal grantsLouisiana oversight of federal grantsMississippi oversight of federal grantsAlabama oversight of federal grantsWisconsin oversight of federal grantsIllinois oversight of federal grantsTennessee oversight of federal grantsKentucky oversight of federal grantsIndiana oversight of federal grantsMichigan oversight of federal grantsOhio oversight of federal grantsGeorgia oversight of federal grantsFlorida oversight of federal grantsSouth Carolina oversight of federal grantsNorth Carolina oversight of federal grantsVirginia oversight of federal grantsWest Virginia oversight of federal grantsPennsylvania oversight of federal grantsNew York oversight of federal grantsVermont oversight of federal grantsNew Hampshire oversight of federal grantsMassachusetts oversight of federal grantsRhode Island oversight of federal grantsConnecticut oversight of federal grantsNew Jersey oversight of federal grantsDelaware oversight of federal grantsMaryland oversight of federal grantsDistrict of Columbia oversight of federal grantsMaine oversight of federal grantsUS map.png


    See also

    External links

    Footnotes