Reilly Bill would Create Inspector General's Office

Portsmouth and Middletown State Rep. Daniel Reilly has introduced legislation that would create an office of inspector general, which he said would help reduce waste and fraud in government.

“There must be more accountability and fiscal responsibility,” Reilly said in a statement. “Rhode Island’s budget seems to grow every year. With each annual increase, the size of government grows and more taxes are levied upon Rhode Islanders.”

According to the legislation, the head of the office of inspector general would serve a five-year term. He or she would be appointed by the governor, attorney general and general treasurer.

“The Inspector General’s sole function will be to save the state money, to save your hard-earned tax dollars. The state adds cost every year, but rarely monitors the effectiveness and management of spending,’’ Reilly said. “The Inspector General will work to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse within Rhode Island government.”

But House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello said in his own statement on Monday that he doesn’t believe that the state government needs a new position created.

“I do not believe we need to be adding to our government infrastructure. I also have concerns this office would conflict with the jurisdiction and authority of the Governor. I have great confidence that Governor Raimondo will do a great job in administering state government in the most efficient manner possible on behalf of the taxpayers,” Mattiello said.

Reilly said that he understands that there is an initial up-front cost with his bill, but ”I fully expect the cost of this office would be recouped many times over.”

Read the bill HERE.