Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont House Bill H0702

Introduced
1/9/24  
Refer
1/9/24  
Refer
3/15/24  
Engrossed
3/26/24  
Refer
3/28/24  
Report Pass
5/7/24  
Refer
5/7/24  

Caption

An act relating to legislative operations and government accountability

Impact

If enacted, H0702 would significantly influence state laws by introducing structured processes for measuring and evaluating legislative effectiveness. It mandates that government bodies must report on their performance and achievements concerning legislative goals. The establishment of the accountability committee is intended to address issues of public concern more transparently, enhancing citizens' trust in governmental operations. This change could lead to more consistent oversight across various agencies and enable legislators to identify areas needing reform effectively.

Summary

House Bill H0702 aims to enhance the accountability of government operations within the state. The bill proposes the establishment of a Joint Government Oversight and Accountability Committee tasked with overseeing the execution of legislative intents and ensuring government officials meet specified policy goals. It emphasizes evidence-based decision-making through performance metrics and aims to systematize processes to improve the state's legislative accountability, moving away from reliance on individual legislators or committees. The bill seeks to create a clearer and more independent framework for government oversight.

Sentiment

The general sentiment regarding H0702 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with support stemming from a desire for greater government transparency and effectiveness. Advocates believe that the bill can lead to meaningful improvements in how state officials execute laws and fulfill their responsibilities. However, there may be concerns from those wary of the implications of increased oversight and the potential bureaucratic hurdles it might introduce to the legislative process. The dialogue around the bill indicates a recognition of the balance required between oversight and operational efficiency.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions about the potential for increased bureaucracy that the establishment of the Joint Government Oversight and Accountability Committee could entail. Critics may argue that enhancing government oversight might complicate existing workflows or divert resources from other critical areas. Additionally, the effectiveness of the proposed performance metrics and oversight processes may be debated, particularly regarding how they will be implemented without overburdening state agencies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT H0067

An act relating to legislative operations and government accountability

VT H1541

Governmental Accountability

VT SB01009

An Act Creating The Office Of Governmental Accountability.

VT HB81

AN ACT relating to governmental accountability and declaring an emergency.

VT HB07033

An Act Concerning The Office Of Governmental Accountability.

VT H0194

An act relating to establishing the Legislative Office of Government Accountability and Strategic Planning

VT HB3507

Legislative Accountability Act

VT SB2403

Relating To Government Accountability.

VT H0735

Government Accountability

VT HB586

AN ACT relating to government accountability.

Similar Bills

VT H0243

An act relating to the regulation of business organizations

VT H0687

An act relating to community resilience and biodiversity protection through land use

VT H0454

An act relating to transforming Vermont’s education governance, quality, and finance systems

VT H0066

An act relating to paid family and medical leave insurance

VT H0227

An act relating to the Vermont Uniform Power of Attorney Act

VT H0282

An act relating to the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact

VT H0645

An act relating to the expansion of approaches to restorative justice

VT H0849

An act relating to technical corrections for the 2024 legislative session