HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) - Pennsylvania’s auditor general on Tuesday advocated slashing the number of legislators on the board that oversees the state’s student-loan agency.

The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency has spent too much of its money on its internal operations - including perks for board members and employees - and not enough on financial aid for students, Auditor General Jack Wagner said in a newly released audit.

‘‘While PHEAA’s mission remains beyond reproach, the agency ... has lost its focus,’’ Wagner said during a news conference. ‘‘Many of PHEAA’s leaders seem to have put their self-interest ahead of the needs of Pennsylvania students.’’

Sixteen of board’s 20 members are legislators. Wagner said the number of lawmakers should be cut in half and the newly opened seats given to people who have expertise in higher education and finance.