Provide for a state government performance and results act
The bill would significantly modify existing Montana laws related to governmental planning and performance measurement. It introduces a requirement for annual performance reports to track departmental progress against the stated initiatives and goals, thereby potentially improving the accountability of public services. Additionally, it repeals outdated sections of law that previously governed performance measurement, thereby streamlining the legal framework surrounding state management practices.
House Bill 190, known as the State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent Government (SMART) Act, aims to improve governmental efficiency by instituting a structured strategic planning process for specific state departments. The bill mandates that departments create and publish annual plans detailing their objectives, anticipated outcomes, and performance metrics. This initiative is intended to enhance transparency and accountability in government operations, ensuring that public resources are utilized effectively.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 190 is largely positive among proponents, who argue that the structured approach to strategic planning will foster greater accountability and responsiveness in government. Critics, however, may express concerns regarding the capacity of departments to effectively meet the new requirements within their existing resource constraints, as the bill specifies that only current resources may be used to implement its provisions.
Notable points of contention in discussions around this bill may center on the feasibility of requiring multiple state departments to produce and maintain detailed annual plans and reports. There may also be debates surrounding the adequacy of departmental resources to meet these new reporting requirements, raising questions about the balance between accountability and the administrative burden placed on state agencies.