North Carolina 2025-2026 Regular Session

North Carolina Senate Bill S474

Introduced
3/24/25  
Refer
3/25/25  
Refer
3/26/25  
Report Pass
4/2/25  
Refer
4/2/25  
Report Pass
4/7/25  
Engrossed
4/8/25  

Caption

The DAVE Act

Impact

The DAVE Act aims to transform how state agencies are evaluated concerning their expenditures and staffing levels. By requiring agencies to submit detailed reports about their use of public resources and the duration of vacant positions, the bill aims to hold these agencies accountable for ensuring efficient operations. The Division will assess whether each agency's services are still needed, potentially leading to reductions in government spending and recommendations for eliminating unnecessary positions. The implications could result in a significant shift in how state operations function, focusing on effectiveness and fiscal responsibility.

Summary

Senate Bill 474, known as the DAVE Act, seeks to enhance governmental accountability and efficiency by establishing a Division of Accountability, Value, and Efficiency within the North Carolina Department of State Auditor. The bill mandates that state agencies report on their use of public funds and provide details about any vacant positions. This Act establishes a new framework for assessment and oversight, which is intended to inform policymakers about agency operations and fiscal responsibility.

Sentiment

Reactions to the DAVE Act are mixed. Proponents argue that it is a necessary step toward fostering greater transparency and accountability in government, making sure public funds are utilized effectively. They suggest that this oversight will ultimately lead to better service delivery for constituents. However, critics express concerns regarding the practicality of implementing such requirements, fearing that the increased bureaucracy may lead to inefficiencies rather than improve the existing framework.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention include the potential consequences of evaluating the continued need for state agencies and their vacant positions. Critics worry that this could result in significant job losses or the dissolution of essential services that communities rely on. The Bill's requirement for assessing the appropriateness of agency funding and operations may spark debates about the value of various government services, challenging existing norms regarding government support and public sector employment.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NC H125

Continuing Budget Operations

NC SB4

An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Office Of Inspector General.

NC LB650

Adopt the Community Development Assistance Act and change provisions relating to land banks, property tax exemptions, real property sold for delinquent taxes, sales tax provisions, and certain tax credits

NC HB2454

Relating to legislative oversight of executive branch actions; prescribing an effective date.

NC S405

Healthcare Investment Act

NC H562

Healthcare Investment Act

NC SB5536

Relating to the financial administration of the Department of Revenue; and declaring an emergency.

NC SB2662

Relating To Government Accountability.

NC S1756

Succession to Office of Governor, Auditing, and Government Efficiency

NC SB2711

AN ACT to amend Chapter 84 of the Private Acts of 1991; as amended by Chapter 162 of the Private Acts of 1994; Chapter 140 of the Private Acts of 1996; Chapter 132 of the Private Acts of 1998; Chapter 64 of the Private Acts of 2005; Chapter 2 of the Private Acts of 2009 and Chapter 44 of the Private Acts of 2022; and any other acts amendatory thereto, relative to the City of Bristol.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.