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HB 8146

AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC FINANCE -- STATE BUDGET--PROGRAM PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Marszalkowski and 1 co-sponsor

Rhode Island bill requiring state agencies to establish performance metrics and report program outcomes in budget processes to improve government accountability and efficiency.

04/03/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/09/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 8146

Legislative bill overview

HB 8146 requires state agencies to establish and report performance metrics for their programs as part of the state budgeting process. The bill aims to create accountability mechanisms by mandating that agencies measure outcomes and efficiency, with results incorporated into budget justifications and legislative oversight.

Why is this important

Performance measurement in government budgeting allows lawmakers and the public to evaluate whether state programs are achieving their goals and using taxpayer resources effectively. This transparency can inform funding decisions and identify programs that may need restructuring or elimination, potentially improving government efficiency and effectiveness.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Agencies may argue that developing comprehensive performance metrics requires significant staff time and resources, potentially diverting funds from program delivery
  • Metric selection disputes: Disagreement over which metrics actually measure success—some may argue certain performance indicators don't capture a program's true impact or purpose
  • Political weaponization concerns: Critics may worry that performance data could be selectively used by the legislature to justify cuts to disfavored programs or protect favored ones, regardless of actual performance

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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