Today, the U.S. General Services Administration announced that the agency is projected to save more than $11 million in taxpayer dollars through an initial set of policies implemented in April 2012 by the new head of the agency, Dan Tangherlini, to cut travel and conference costs. A financial audit showed that since April 2012 and through the rest of the fiscal year, more than $11 million has been saved in travel, meetings, conferences, and training costs.

This is just one step in the ongoing top to bottom review of all agency operations. “Four months ago we began a rigorous top to bottom review of all agency operations. We've made significant cuts in travel and conference spending and these savings are just the beginning,” said GSA acting administrator Tangherlini. "We are deepening our commitment to promoting efficiency, driving steeper bargains, delivering better  value, and creating greater opportunities for savings here at GSA and across the government."

To date, GSA has cancelled 47 conferences and implemented strong oversight to ensure that all travel and events are limited to necessary and essential functions. Tangherlini has consolidated oversight of conference and travel expenses in the new Office of Administrative Services.  

Recently, Tangherlini also cut $500,000 in executive bonuses and instituted a hiring freeze across the agency through the end of the fiscal year while his review of all agency operations is underway.   

The new leadership at GSA will continue to make changes to make the agency more accountable, transparent, and efficient as part of the ongoing top to bottom review.