R-51: What accountability?

from Evergreen Freedom Foundation

10/30/02

Washington State - Proponents of Referendum 51 (R-51), the $7.8 billion transportation tax - increase package, are advertising the measure as containing numerous accountability measures. They say R-51 requires quarterly audits of revenues, as well as audits on the progress of projects. While this language may be found in the bill that put R-51 on the ballot (HB 2969), it was omitted from the Referendum by section 601 of the same bill: "The secretary of state shall submit this act, except for sections 102 through 120 of this act . . . ."

Noticeably absent from R-51 is the Blue Ribbon Commission on Transportation's recommendation that a "thorough and independent performance review of WSDOT administration practices and staffing levels" occur. Where is the role for our State Auditor in R-51? There isn't one. True accountability can only be assured by an independent evaluation of state programs and services - in other words, performance audits.

R-51's accountability promises simply are not true. Washington's taxpayers deserve true accountability for their tax dollars - accountability that ensures real consequences for lack of progress. Fiscal audits that only relay a project's status are not accountability. No consequences means no accountability.

To read our complete Policy Highlighter, click on the link below or visit our website at www.effwa.org:

http://www.effwa.org/highlighters/v12_n18.php

For more information, please feel free to contact Carl Gipson, Deputy Communications Director at (360) 956-3482 or cgipson@effwa.org.