The implementation of SB2259 is expected to impact how audit fees are structured and managed across state agencies. The bill seeks to enhance accountability and transparency in financial practices by improving the auditing schedule and ensuring that reports are comprehensive. By doing so, it promotes a more uniform approach to auditing that can aid in the overall financial governance of state resources. This change is also designed to make the auditing process more efficient, which might provide long-term economic benefits and increased trust in state agencies' financial reports.
Summary
Senate Bill No. 2259 aims to amend existing provisions regarding the fees charged by the state auditor in North Dakota. The bill modifies sections of the North Dakota Century Code to establish more streamlined processes for auditing state agencies and commodity groups. It prescribes new guidelines for the frequency and structure of audits, ensuring that each state agency is audited every two years unless specified otherwise by the governor or legislative audit committee. The bill outlines the related fees for these audits, which will be charged based on the economic capacity of the entities involved and the type of financial statement audit required.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB2259 appears mostly positive, as reflected in the unanimous support during the voting process. Legislators from both chambers of the North Dakota Legislative Assembly endorsed the bill, indicating a collective recognition of the necessity for enhanced auditing practices. The strong bipartisan support suggests that concerns about fiscal reliability and transparency are shared across party lines, highlighting a commitment to improving the state's financial accountability systems.
Contention
While the bill passed without opposition, discussions around it may have hinted at underlying concerns regarding the adequacy of funding for audits and the potential impact on smaller agencies that might find the auditing costs burdensome. However, modifications within the bill allow for reduced charges based on the financial capacity of the entities, which may mitigate some of these potential issues. Overall, the contention appears minimal, with focus primarily on ensuring that the auditing process serves the public interest effectively.
The powers and duties of the state auditor and the salary of the state auditor; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a legislative management report; and to declare an emergency.
The annual comprehensive financial report, audits of state agencies, reports, financial audits, and petitions; and to provide for retroactive application.
Relative to the legislative auditor, requires the auditor to provide for certain notifications of noncompliant auditees and requires auditees to designate an individual to file reports with the auditor and notify the auditor