Provides for a subcommittee of the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget to conduct sunset reviews of state departments (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Impact
The introduction of this bill represents a significant change to how state departments are managed and scrutinized. The review subcommittee will have the authority to conduct a comprehensive sunset review, requiring state agencies to justify their existence and operations regularly. If an agency is not found to be effectively serving its purpose, it may be terminated. This change aims to foster a culture of transparency and efficiency within government entities, which could alter the operational landscape of state departments considerably. Furthermore, the bill provides for a process whereby unfunded programs may be reviewed and potentially eliminated, streamlining fiscal responsibilities for the state.
Summary
House Bill 743 establishes the statutory entity review subcommittee within the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget (JLCB) to facilitate the evaluation and review of various state departments under the provisions of the Sunset Law. This bill aims to streamline the process by which state agencies are evaluated for their continued necessity and efficiency, potentially leading to the termination of entities that do not deliver effective services or have become obsolete. By doing so, the bill seeks to promote accountability and enhance the function of state government, ultimately serving the interests of taxpayers.
Sentiment
Discussions surrounding HB 743 reflect a generally positive sentiment towards its objectives. Supporters argue it is a step towards better governance and fiscal responsibility, ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively and efficiently. They believe that such a review of agencies is long overdue and will prevent wasteful spending on inactive or ineffective programs. However, there is also concern among some legislators and interest groups about the implications this may have on specific programs that serve vital functions in the community. Critics worry that essential services might be cut in the name of efficiency without proper consideration of their community value.
Contention
While many support the intent behind HB 743, notable contention arises regarding the potential impacts of mandatory program evaluations. Some legislators fear that the process might lead to the unjustified termination of programs that are deemed less essential in a purely fiscal sense but which provide critical support to the community. There is apprehension that such evaluations may overlook qualitative factors, leading to cuts that could harm vulnerable populations. The bill also raises questions about which programs truly require oversight and at what frequency these evaluations should occur, indicating a need for careful implementation to balance efficiency with community needs.
Provides relative to the Dedicated Fund Review Subcommittee of the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget. (7/1/20) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Provides for the Dedicated Fund Review Subcommittee of the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget and submission and approval of plans related to special funds and dedications (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Provides for certain funds in the state treasury and the powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities of the Dedicated Fund Review Subcommittee of the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget. (See Act) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)
Provides for the annual reporting to the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget by departments and public postsecondary education management boards on enacted legislation with significant fiscal impact. (7/1/13) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Requires review by the Litigation Subcommittee of the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget of certain negotiations, compromises and settlements. (7/1/10) (EN NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Requires certain state entities to report corrective actions taken to mitigate state risk exposure upon request of the litigation subcommittee of the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget. (8/1/23)
Provides for reporting to and approval of all state contracts valued at twenty-five million dollars or more annually by the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget. (7/1/20) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Requests a joint subcommittee of the House Committee on Appropriations and Senate Committee on Finance to study and make recommendations relative to state supplemental pay (EN NO IMPACT See Note)