Summary of House Bill H 364: Department of Governmental Efficiency Task Force
Bill Number: H 364
Introduced: March 04, 2025
Status: Introduced, read first time; referred to: State Affairs
Classification: Bill
Subject: Appropriations, Finance, Government, House of Representatives, Legislature, Senate
Purpose and Intent
House Bill H 364 aims to establish the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Legislative Task Force in the State of Idaho. The primary goal of this task force is to enhance the effectiveness and accountability of state governance by systematically reviewing and improving government operations. This initiative responds to the need for oversight and efficiency improvements within state agencies, ultimately aiming to serve the best interests of Idaho's citizens.
Key Provisions
The bill outlines several significant provisions:
Task Force Composition:
- The task force will consist of nine members:
- Three members from the House of Representatives (appointed by the Speaker).
- Three members from the Senate (appointed by the President Pro Tempore).
- Three members from the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee (appointed by the co-chairs).
- Initial appointments must be made by July 1, 2025.
Subgroups Focus Areas:
- The task force will be divided into three specialized subgroups:
- Regulatory Accountability: Evaluating state agency rulemaking and aiming to shift nearly all regulations to statute by 2033.
- Budget Accountability: Conducting reviews to identify and eliminate wasteful government services and expenditures.
- Government Operations and Oversight: Assessing state structures for potential agency consolidations and streamlining operations.
Operational Structure:
- The task force will meet at least twice a year and can hold special meetings as needed.
- A quorum will consist of five members.
- Members will receive compensation as per legislative compensation guidelines, funded from the legislative account.
Use of Technology:
- The task force is authorized to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and other technological resources to enhance its analytical capabilities.
Sunset Clause:
- The task force will operate until November 30, 2029, after which it will be dissolved, and the provisions of the bill will become null and void.
Emergency Clause:
- The bill includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
Impact
The establishment of the DOGE Task Force is expected to:
- Improve the efficiency and accountability of state government operations.
- Reduce regulatory burdens and enhance oversight of state agencies.
- Identify and eliminate wasteful expenditures, thereby promoting fiscal responsibility.
- Engage in comprehensive reviews and provide recommendations for legislative improvements.
This initiative is designed to align Idaho's governance with the best interests of its citizens, ensuring a more responsive and effective government.
Procedural Timeline
- March 04, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Joint Rules Committee for printing.
- March 05, 2025: Reported printed and referred to State Affairs.
- March 07, 2025: Reported out of Committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation.
- March 10, 2025: Read second time; filed for third reading.
- March 11, 2025: Passed in the House and filed for first reading in the Senate.
For further inquiries, contact:
- Representative Jaron Crane
- Representative Jordan Redman
- Phone: (208) 332-1000
This summary provides a clear overview of House Bill H 364, its objectives, key provisions, and potential impacts on governance in Idaho.