Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2827

Introduced
3/22/24  

Caption

Reduces the required number of members present to constitute a quorum from three (3) to two (2) members.

Impact

The alteration of the quorum requirements is anticipated to have a significant impact on how state agencies manage their contracts for professional services. By reducing the number of members required to be present for decision-making, it could lead to more prompt and potentially less bureaucratic processes. This could enhance the state's ability to procure necessary services promptly, which may be especially beneficial in urgent projects or during times of high demand for professional services. However, this shift may also raise concerns regarding transparency and accountability, as fewer members representing different interests would be involved in the decision-making process.

Summary

Bill S2827 aims to amend the quorum requirements for committees involved in state purchases and professional services. The current requirement of three members present to constitute a quorum would be reduced to two members. This legislative change is intended to streamline operations within state committees, allowing them to conduct business more efficiently and with fewer members present, which can help in expediting the contracting process for various professional services including architecture and engineering.

Contention

While the bill aims to simplify and accelerate the procurement process, there may be opposing views regarding the adequacy of representation in committee meetings with a reduced quorum. Critics might argue that fewer decision-makers present could lead to less rigorous scrutiny of contracts and professional service agreements. Furthermore, the change may lead to discussions about the potential risks of favoritism or inadequate representation of diverse viewpoints in the selection of contractors for state projects.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0521

Retirement System--membership And Service Credits

RI H6017

Retirement System--membership And Service Credits

RI H5189

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State-of Elections And Campaign Finance (proposes A Constitutional Amendment Authorizing Four (4) Year Terms For Members Of The General Assembly, Elected Members From Even Numbered Districts Would Begin To Be Elected To Four (4) Year Terms.)

RI H6512

Joint Resolution Amending The Joint Resolution Creating A Permanent Legislative Commission On Child Care In Rhode Island (this Resolution Would Amend The Commission Name, Membership, Appointment Process, Purpose, Funding Allowance Designation, Timeline For Membership, And Meeting Schedules.)

RI S1126

Joint Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay (creates A 13 Member Joint Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay, And Who Would Report Back To The General Assembly By May 31, 2024, And Expire On June 30, 2024.)

RI H6496

Joint Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay (creates A 13 Member Joint Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay, And Who Would Report Back To The General Assembly By May 31, 2024, And Expire On June 30, 2024.)

RI H6089

House Resolution Extending The Reporting And Expiration Dates, And Requiring Reappointment Of The Membership Of The Legislative Commission To Study The Entire Area Of Land Use, Preservation, Development, Housing, Environment, And Regulation (extends The Reporting And Expiration Dates And Requires A Letter Of Continued Interest To The Speaker For Reappointment Of Membership, To The Commission To Study The Entire Area Of Land Use From 6/8/23 To 6/8/25 And Would Expire On 6/30/25.)

RI H5136

House Resolution Amending The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2021 And 2022 (require The House Clerk To Publish Certain Information Regarding Decisions Made By The Speaker And Appeals By Members To The Decisions.)

RI H6088

House Resolution Extending The Reporting And Expiration Dates And Amending The Purpose, Name, And Membership Of The Special Legislative Commission To Study The Low And Moderate Income Housing Act (this Resolution Would Expand The Purpose, Amend The Name And Membership, And Extend The Reporting And Expiration Dates Of The Commission From April 12, To June 7, 2025, And Would Expire On June 28, 2025.)

RI H5126

Joint Resolution To Approve, Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State -- Four Year Terms And Term Limits For Representatives And Senators (proposes An Amendment To The State Constitution, Article Iv, To Allow For Term Limits For The General Assembly Members.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.