The bill sHB5720 File No. 268 seeks to reestablish the Legislative Program Review and Investigations Committee (PRI) as a permanent standing committee of the General Assembly, effective July 1, 2023. The committee will be composed of twelve members, with equal representation from both the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as from the majority and minority parties. The committee is empowered to conduct program reviews and investigations, propose legislation, and ensure compliance with audit recommendations. It will also provide an annual report to the General Assembly and has the authority to compel witness attendance and testimony, administer oaths, and protect the confidentiality of public employees and investigation materials.

The bill also amends existing statutes to enhance accountability and inclusivity. It mandates corrective actions by department or agency heads following program reviews that identify issues, and it updates the language to be more inclusive by changing "chairman" to "chairperson." The bill extends protections to witnesses testifying before the General Assembly or any committee, requires the Auditors of Public Accounts to report audit findings to multiple government officials, and updates the process for the Judicial Review Council to investigate complaints against judges and magistrates. Additionally, the bill has fiscal implications for the years 2024 and 2025 and maintains confidentiality protections for certain information and records.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 1-122, 2-46, 2-47, 51-51l
GAE Joint Favorable: 1-122, 2-46, 2-47, 51-51l
File No. 268: 1-122, 2-46, 2-47, 51-51l