Press Release  Audit of Secretary of the Commonwealth Suggests Clarification Relative to Works of Art and Historic Treasures

Boston — Auditor Suzanne M. Bump today released an audit of the Secretary of the Commonwealth (SOC), which reviewed the State Archives, the Corporations Division, and the six of the thirteen Registry of Deed’s which report to the SOC. The audit examined activity from July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2015.

The audit found that the SOC’s Archives Division was not following state policies regarding the identification, inventory and security of works of art and historic treasures. Noting the unique nature of their work, the SOC’s office indicated that standards for protection of these assets were not applicable nor feasible. The audit recommends that the SOC seek clarification from the State Comptroller as to the standards it should follow.

In addition, the audit found that some Register of Deeds were not properly segregating duties related to cash transactions and reconciliation of revenue. In response to the audit, the SOC indicated they were taking steps to address these issues. The audit also recommends improvements to the Registries of Deeds fixed-asset inventory procedures.

Finally, the audit reviewed the SOC’s Corporations Division and found that it had processes in place to properly collect fees and other revenue.

The SOC was established in 1780, and is the principal public information officer for the state government, and oversees 15 divisions.

The Secretary of the Commonwealth audit is available here.

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