Audit Objective
Determine whether the Nassau County (County) Weights and Measures Division (Division) completed required testing of all weighing and measuring devices used to price goods and whether complete records were maintained.
Key Findings
The Assistant Director of Weights and Measures (Assistant Director) did not complete all required testing of weighing and measuring devices or maintain complete inspection records as required by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets regulations and article 16 of the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law (AML).In addition, although the Division had a price accuracy testing policy, the Assistant Director did not conduct any price accuracy tests. As a result, consumers are at increased risk of paying more than necessary for goods and services.
Specifically:
- 118 of 395 devices that we reviewed were not inspected as required.
- There was no system in place to maintain a complete and accurate master list of businesses or update the inventory of devices.
Key Recommendations
- Perform required testing in accordance with New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets regulations and AML.
- Maintain a complete inventory of all businesses.
County officials disagreed with certain aspects of our findings and recommendations, but indicated they have initiated corrective action. Appendix B includes our comments on issues raised in the County’s response letter.