As your Senator, my priorities always have been and will continue to be focused on fiscal responsibility and structural change in order to lower tax burdens, increase effectiveness, and improve the lives and livelihoods of all Rhode Island citizens. That’s why I have submitted legislation for the creation of an Office of the Inspector General. It is not a new idea, nor is it a partisan idea, but as Rhode Islanders are increasingly frustrated by infrastructure failures, leadership lapses, and ineffective policies and practices, - it is an idea whose time has come.

Rhode Islanders deserve a government that is transparent, accountable, and effective. While the state had the recent luxury of federal ARPA funds to bolster our state and local budgets, that time is now ending and we must adjust accordingly. The state needs to review all expenditures carefully and ensure taxpayers are getting the most efficient use of their hard-earned dollars.

There are many areas where our state government can improve with robust, autonomous oversight. The Office of the Inspector General would possess the authority to conduct investigations, review contracts, perform audits, and issue evaluations of governmental agencies and programs to safeguard against potential waste, inefficiency, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement.

It is a proactive investment that could significantly lessen the cost of government overall and begin to restore trust in the integrity of our governance. Functions that are both timely and timeless.

Senator Anthony P. DeLuca II represents District 29 in Warwick. He recently announced he is running for reelection.