SB 5417 - DIGEST

Declares an intent to provide greater accountability to the public through an independent performance audit of government agencies.

Finds that performance audit findings may include the identification of potential cost savings and ways to improve service delivery.

Directs the state auditor to contract for a performance audit of the executive branch of state government.

Requires the performance audit to include an examination of the efficiency and effectiveness of major management policies, practices, and functions across all executive branch agencies.

Requires the audit to include, but not be limited to, the following: (1) Planning, budgeting, and program evaluation policies and practices;

(2) Personnel systems operations and management;

(3) State purchasing operations and management policies and practices;

(4) Information processing and telecommunications systems policy, organization, and management; and

(5) Organizational and staffing patterns, especially in terms of the ratio of managers and supervisors to nonmanagement personnel.

Requires the state auditor to report the results of the audit to the legislature by September 1, 2004.

Provides that the legislature shall establish a joint committee on government accountability.

Appropriates the sum of five million dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2004, from the general fund to the state auditor for the purposes of this act.