SB 5311 - DIGEST

Finds that: (1) Public confidence in government is essential and programs to continuously improve quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of public functions must be enhanced in order to restore public trust;

(2) Washington state government and other entities that receive tax dollars must transform the way it operates and delivers services in order to respond to severe, ongoing budget shortfalls and declining revenues, and ensure citizens receive value for their tax dollars;

(3) A strong, objective, and independent board is necessary to help develop, oversee, and monitor accountability systems for all government to ensure that public entities accomplish intended goals and outcomes, and that management systems, customer satisfaction, and efficiency are world class in performance; and

(4) Fair, independent, professional performance audits of government systems by the state auditor are essential to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of government entities.