Bill > H0067

This bill creates the Joint Government Oversight and Accountability Committee (JGOAC), a new legislative committee designed to enhance government accountability and performance. The committee will consist of eight members (four from the House and four from the Senate) appointed to examine and investigate issues of significant public concern, such as matters affecting the entire state, vulnerable populations, high-cost initiatives, or government oversight failures. The JGOAC will have the power to investigate these issues, coordinate with other legislative committees, and produce an annual report detailing its findings, objectives, and recommended resources. Additionally, the bill modifies several existing government processes, including requiring the Auditor of Accounts to provide written summaries of completed audits to the new committee, changing the default submission date for periodic reports from January to November 15, and mandating that agencies notify legislative operations if they will be unable to meet reporting deadlines. The bill emphasizes a systematic approach to government accountability by focusing on evidence-based processes, measuring policy outcomes, and ensuring that legislative intent is properly executed by government agencies. The new committee aims to provide independent, objective oversight of state government performance and create a more transparent and accountable legislative process.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.67