H.B. No. 3770 aims to enhance the efficiency and strategic fiscal reviews of state agencies by the Legislative Budget Board. The bill amends Section 322.017 of the Government Code to clarify the definition of "state agency" to include institutions of higher education and mandates that the board must conduct reviews of at least 25 state agencies and 40 programs each fiscal biennium. Additionally, it establishes a timeline for reporting findings, requiring the board to submit reports by September 1 of each even-numbered year, which must include recommendations for improving effectiveness and efficiency, as well as a detailed analysis of costs and benefits associated with the recommended strategies.

The bill also modifies Section 322.0175, allowing the board to perform strategic fiscal reviews of state agencies as deemed appropriate, rather than mandating reviews for all agencies. It specifies the content of the strategic fiscal review reports, including evaluations of agency activities and recommendations for funding. Furthermore, it ensures that information gathered during these reviews is protected from public disclosure until the review is completed. The bill repeals certain existing sections and sets a requirement for the Legislative Budget Board to review a reduced number of agencies and programs for the fiscal biennium ending August 31, 2027. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 322.017, Government Code 322.011 (Government Code 322)
House Committee Report: Government Code 322.017, Government Code 322.0175, Government Code 322.011 (Government Code 322)
Engrossed: Government Code 322.017, Government Code 322.0175, Government Code 322.011 (Government Code 322)