A hearing was held on the safeguards the federal government would use to ensure aggressive oversight, transparency, and accountability of the $787 billion of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The focus was on ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to prevent cost overruns as agencies enter into contracts to spend ARRA funds, that strict oversight of contractor performance occurs, that grant conditions are met, and that fraud is promptly prosecuted. Also examined was presenting quick and accurate information about how the funds are being spent so that taxpayers may follow the process and determine if their money is being spent wisely and effectively.