Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2124

Introduced

1/16/26

Refer

1/16/26

Caption

Requires that an independent efficiency and performance audit of the department of transportation be commissioned by the department of administration.

Impact

The bill emphasizes the importance of enhancing the operational efficiency and transparency of RIDOT. By commissioning this audit, the General Assembly seeks to identify areas for improvement within the department which could lead to better use of taxpayer funds, improved infrastructure, and overall enhanced transportation services. The findings of the audit will be crucial in implementing changes that could lead to cost savings and improved project outcomes.

Summary

Bill S2124, titled the Rhode Island Department of Transportation Efficiency and Performance Audit Act, mandates the commissioning of an independent efficiency and performance audit of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT). This legislation aims to benchmark the department's effectiveness against comparable states, optimizing transportation systems and ensuring accountability in state affairs. The audit is intended to evaluate various aspects of department operations, including project delivery efficiency, asset management, financial management, and governance practices.

Contention

Notably, the bill stipulates that the audit must be completed and delivered by January 1, 2027, creating a timeline for action and accountability. While there is general support for increased oversight of the department, potential points of contention could arise regarding the selection of auditors, the metrics used for evaluation, and how the results will be used to drive policy changes. Additionally, stakeholders may express concerns about the impact of external audits on the current operational dynamics and workforce of RIDOT.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5880

Requires the auditor general to conduct performance audits of all state agencies.

RI S0433

Requires the auditor general to conduct performance audits of all state agencies.

RI H5283

Adds department of corrections' correctional officers to the list of public safety employees that are entitled to their full salary if they are injured and become disabled as a result of performance of their job duties.

RI H6204

Repeals the energy efficiency charge.

RI S0612

Ensures that the department of housing is able to access the full calendar year worth of housing choice voucher data for the annual report required by this section and amends the content of the information required to be submitted in the annual report.

RI H5997

Establishes the office of inspector general as an independent administrative agency charged with the responsibility to investigate, detect, and prevent fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the expenditure of public funds.

RI H6005

Removes the requirement that the public utilities commission allocate five million dollars ($5,000,000) annually to the Rhode Island infrastructure bank for use with energy efficient programs.

RI S0894

Removes the requirement that the public utilities commission allocate five million dollars ($5,000,000) annually to the Rhode Island infrastructure bank for use with energy efficient programs.

RI S0632

SENATE RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING THE GOVERNOR, THE DIRECTOR OF THE RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (RIDOT), AND THE RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO EXPLORE INCREASING THE MASSACHUSETTS BAY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY'S (MBTA) EVENING SERVICE TO THE WICKFORD JUNCTION/PROVIDENCE/STOUGHTON LINE ON WEEKDAYS AND INITIATING A WEEKEND SCHEDULE

RI H5998

Establishes an office of inspector general as an independent administrative agency, charged with preventing and detecting fraud, waste and abuse, and mismanagement in the expenditure of public funds.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.