Bill > S1509

This bill establishes a special commission to study and recommend ways to improve the accountability, economy, and efficiency of government operations across the Commonwealth, including its agencies, departments, and local subdivisions. The commission's purpose is to propose measures to reduce spending, eliminate waste and duplication, consolidate services, and reorganize departments and agencies to make government more responsive to public needs. It will also examine public employee career services, analyze government contracts with private vendors, and review how state and local entities retain professional services like legal and accounting. The commission will be composed of seven members appointed by the governor, three members from the Senate, three from the House of Representatives, and ex-officio members including the governor, legislative leaders, the auditor, and the inspector general. The commission is required to meet at least quarterly, can request staff support from state agencies, and will submit annual reports, with a final report due by June 30, 2014, unless extended. A key focus will be exploring pilot projects to implement the Baldrige National Quality Program criteria, a framework for improving organizational performance and sustainability, in selected agencies to enhance service delivery and cost-effectiveness.