GAO presented its Income Security Issues issue area plan for fiscal years 1997 and 1998.

GAO plans to focus on the following pivotal areas: (1) ensuring that public funds for income security programs are spent efficiently and protected from fraud and abuse; (2) improving the Social Security Administration's service to the public at reduced cost; (3) evaluating the adequacy of Social Security, and public and private pension systems for future retirees; (4) redesigning the nation's disability programs to ensure the validity of the determination process and encourage work; (5) monitoring implementation of the 1996 welfare legislation; and (6) assessing government efforts to protect children's welfare.