Audit: Calif. rail group improperly documenting payments

LOS ANGELES — According to a state audit released on Wednesday of the California High-Speed Rail Authority’s $8.9 million in payments reviewed by the office of Inspector General Laura Chick, approximately $3.44 million, or 38 percent, was paid out in May and June without records showing how many hours the consultants had worked, the Los Angeles Times reports. In addition, the Authority spent $90,000 more for potentially duplicative public relations efforts.  

However, the inspector general office said that the authority's management is improving under new Chief Executive Roelof van Ark, who has been implementing recommendations made in April by the Bureau of State Audits. For the full story, click here.