This bill amends Section 42-11-2 of the General Laws in Chapter 42-11 entitled "Department of Administration." The amendment adds a new power and duty for the department of administration to administer a statewide planning program, including planning assistance to state departments and agencies. It also adds a new power and duty for the department to administer a statewide program of photography and photographic services. Additionally, the amendment adds a new power and duty for the department to negotiate with public or private educational institutions in the state, in cooperation with the department of health, for state support of medical education. The amendment also includes several other powers and duties of the department, such as preparing a budget for state departments and agencies, administering the budget, controlling accounting systems, purchasing supplies and services, maintaining state buildings, operating a merit system of personnel administration, and operating a data processing center. The amendment also requires the department to provide civil service tests for social workers at the department of human services and to prepare reports on property leases and rentals by state agencies. The amendment further requires the department to prepare a report on all current property owned or leased by the state, including information on square footage, occupancy costs, expiration dates of leases, and strategic plans for leases. The department is also required to prepare a report on all current property owned or leased by the state and to provide this report to the chairs of the house and senate finance committees.

This bill makes several amendments to existing law. In Section 1, it adds new requirements for the Department of Administration to provide certain reports and information, such as a map of state buildings and an industry benchmark report. It also encourages municipalities, school districts, and quasi-public agencies to achieve cost savings by participating in state contracts or collaborative agreements. Additionally, it requires the department to administer a health benefit exchange. In Section 2, the bill amends the powers and scope of activities of the Department of Children, Youth and Families. It adds a new requirement for the department to implement a hiring process developed by the director by October 1, 2023. It also adds new responsibilities for the department, such as serving as an advocate for the needs of children and developing multidisciplinary service plans for drug-exposed babies. The bill also makes other changes to the department's powers and duties, such as establishing administrative divisions, evaluating services, and promulgating rules and regulations.

Statutes affected:
6375  SUB A: 42-11-2, 42-72-5
6375: 42-11-2, 42-72-5