SENATE BILL REPORT

SJR 8200

BYSenators Talmadge, Moore, West and Stratton

Providing for the gubernatorial appointment of the state treasurer, insurance commissioner, superintendent of public instruction, attorney general, and commissioner of public lands.

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 27, 1987

Senate Staff:Barbara Howard (786-7410); Eugene Green (786-7405)

AS OF JANUARY 23, 1987

BACKGROUND:

In addition to the Governor and Lieutenant Governor, the Constitution enumerates six statewide elected officers.  It has been suggested that making most of these offices appointive would reduce the fragmentation and diffusion of responsibility in state government.

SUMMARY:

The State Constitution is amended to eliminate the office of Secretary of State and to eliminate the requirement that the Treasurer, Attorney General, Superintendent of Public Instruction, and Commissioner of Public Lands be elected.  The remaining elected statewide officials would be the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor and the Auditor.

The Governor may appoint a Treasurer, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Attorney General, Commissioner of Public Lands and an Insurance Commissioner or successor officials, who serve subject to confirmation by the Senate and at the pleasure of the Governor.

Fiscal Note:      none requested