The Lexington Herald-Leader reports that the U.S. Department of Transportation is investigating the use of change orders on highway projects in Kentucky. Change orders are used in the event that a contractor finds their expenses exceed the amount they originally bid for a project. Change orders are a necessary part of highway construction, but their use might also leave the state open to bid rigging and fraud.

More information: Lexington Herald-Leader: Ky. cabinet under U.S. scrutiny; Change orders at hub of transportation inquiry (April 1, 2005) , Courier-Journal: Transportation Cabinet ignored rules, audit says; Change orders for road work involved (March 31, 2005)