Lawmakers would direct reviews of state-funded programs

The commission would review state programs when the legislative committee directs it. This applies to state agencies and their programs, services, activities, or functions. The commission may also award grants to agencies when funding is available.

Agencies would prepare plans and reports for new or greatly expanded programs that receive appropriations. A major expansion includes an appropriation increase of at least 25 percent from the prior fiscal year, or a significant change in the program's population served, service method, or geographic reach. Plans must be submitted for commission approval and online publication before data is analyzed. For programs that meet commission guidance, plans must propose a causal study or explain why one is not feasible or suitable. Each year, within 30 days after the regular session ends, or after a special session that passes an appropriations act, the Legislative Services Agency must identify covered programs and notify agencies and the commission.

The Legislature could require specific reviews or preliminary studies by law. A preliminary study may examine a proposed or existing policy or program. A direction for a preliminary study must identify the policy or program and the questions to be examined. The commission would coordinate scope, schedule, and needed resources with affected agencies; if capacity is insufficient, it may propose changes to the Legislature.

The commission would operate under a legislative committee, with a director appointed by that committee. The director may hire full-time or part-time professional and clerical staff as needed, with committee approval for selection and supervision. Staffing and other spending must stay within legislative appropriations and commission-approved budgets. The act is stated to take effect October 1, 2026; the existing commission's property, funds, personnel, and records transfer to the recreated commission on that date.