TX
Texas Senate Bill SB592

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB592

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the powers and duties of the state auditor's office.

Impact

The proposed changes are intended to enhance financial accountability and transparency within state agencies. By extending the auditor's authority to issue subpoenas for documents and requiring specific entities to cooperate in audits, the bill will enforce compliance among agencies that handle state funds. Furthermore, the establishment of an Audit and Investigative Coordinating Council is expected to streamline auditing practices and foster collaboration among internal auditors and inspectors general, thus promoting efficiency and thoroughness in state oversight.

Summary

SB592 aims to amend various provisions in the Government Code related to the powers and duties of the State Auditor's Office in Texas. The bill seeks to expand the authority of the State Auditor by allowing for more comprehensive access to documentation and audit records of various state entities, improving the oversight capabilities of the office. Specifically, it introduces provisions for the audit and investigation of public entities, ensuring that the state auditor has the necessary leverage to access information that may be critical for audits, including working papers and communications associated with investigations.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SB592 appears to be supportive among legislators who prioritize government efficiency and fiscal responsibility. Advocates argue that empowering the State Auditor enhances public trust in governmental operations and improves financial management integrity. However, there are concerns among some stakeholders regarding the potential implications for privacy and the resources required for compliance with these expanded auditing powers, which could lead to increased administrative burdens on state agencies.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions on the balance between enhanced auditing power and the operational burden placed on state agencies. Opponents express caution about overly broad powers of the State Auditor that may inadvertently lead to excessive scrutiny of agency operations. The debate centers on finding a compromise that maintains effective oversight without compromising the operational efficiency of state departments or infringing on their autonomy.

Latest SB592 Activity

Companion Bills

TX HB593

Identical Relating to the powers and duties of the state auditor's office.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1868

Relating to the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB418

Relating to the duties and powers of peace officers.

TX SB24

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB4049

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB13

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX HB2843

Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB4398

Relating to the powers and duties of a personal bond or personal bond and pretrial supervision office.

TX HB1285

Relating to the training and duties of a taxpayer liaison officer for an appraisal district.

TX HB127

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Homeland Security Division, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

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TX HB593

Relating to the powers and duties of the state auditor's office.

TX HB2942

Relating to accountability and transparency in government operations, including disclosure, oversight, and enforcement measures; providing penalties.

TX HB4307

Relating to the creation of the office of inspector within the State Auditor's Office and the appointment of deputy inspectors general at the Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Youth Commission, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas Education Agency, and Texas Department of Transportation; providing penalties.

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NJ A263

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NJ A687

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SC H3222

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TX HB4161

Relating to the creation of the office of inspector general and the appointment of inspectors general at the Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Youth Commission, Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas, Texas Education Agency, and Texas Department of Transportation; providing penalties.