New Jersey Assembly Bill A1116

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Authorizes State Auditor to conduct cost-benefit analyses of certain programs and initiatives.

Impact

The legislation mandates that the State Auditor will carry out these evaluations not only at the direction of legislative leadership but also on their own initiative. This proactive approach is intended to ensure that such analyses are conducted regularly and systematically. Over every five-year period, the Auditor is required to analyze at least one initiative from each accountable agency or independent authority, particularly focusing on those with significant funding of over $1 million annually. This change could lead to a more detailed understanding of the costs versus benefits associated with government programs, potentially reshaping funding priorities.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1116 seeks to empower the State Auditor of New Jersey with the authority to conduct comprehensive cost-benefit analyses of various programs and initiatives. This initiative is aimed at assisting state policymakers in making informed decisions related to budget allocations and policy implementations. Specifically, the bill targets any existing or proposed initiatives that are funded or expected to get funding through the state appropriation process or are designed to award tax credits meant to stimulate economic growth within the state. By providing a structured framework for evaluation, the bill emphasizes transparency and accountability in government spending.

Contention

One of the notable aspects of the bill is its potential to enhance financial governance while also possibly raising concerns regarding bureaucratic overhead. The discretionary power assigned to the State Auditor in defining the scope and methodology of analyses may lead to debates over independence and objectivity. Additionally, the requirement for agencies to assist in these evaluations, regardless of existing confidentiality provisions, may incite apprehensions about data privacy and resource allocation, particularly in agencies that may already be stretched thin in terms of staffing and budgets.