Connecticut House Bill HB05423

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/12
• Refer: 3/6/12

Caption

An Act Concerning Oversight Of Large Capital Projects.

Impact

The establishment of legislative oversight aims to increase accountability and transparency in the management of significant state-funded projects. By requiring public hearings and votes from relevant standing committees, the bill facilitates a structured approach to assessing the viability and necessity of large expenditures. This increased scrutiny aligns with efforts to ensure that taxpayer money is utilized effectively and that proposed projects are in the best interests of the community.

Summary

House Bill 05423 aims to establish a framework for the oversight of large capital projects within the state, specifically targeting projects with estimated costs exceeding fifty million dollars. The bill mandates that chief administrative officers of relevant departments or agencies develop detailed oversight plans for these projects, including assessments of capital outlays, annual operating expenses, and potential state revenues. Importantly, it demands an independent analysis of the projects to evaluate alternatives, ensuring a comprehensive review process before any project is approved.

Contention

While the bill aims at enhancing oversight, it may face challenges regarding the time and resources required for these evaluations. Critics could argue that the additional layers of review may delay crucial projects and lead to bureaucratic bottlenecks. However, proponents are likely to emphasize the necessity of thorough oversight to prevent mismanagement and to assure that large-scale investments yield beneficial outcomes for the public. The discussions around this bill may reflect a broader debate on the balance between necessary oversight and efficient project execution.