Their purpose is to examine government programs and operations, and determine if they are efficient and effective. Some of their audits are required by law, but most are undertaken at the request of a Congressional Committee. Good site for program evaluation
"Private, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization to eliminate waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement in government through research and public education activities."
The Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) is a research arm of the Florida Legislature. OPPAGA supports the Florida Legislature by providing data, evaluative research, and objective analyses that assist legislative budget and policy deliberations.