Summary of Bill S 349: Expanding the Definition of Agency

Bill Overview

• Bill Number: S 349
• Title: Relates to expanding the definition of agency
• Status: Referred to Governmental Operations
• Introduced: January 08, 2025
• Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 349 is to expand the legal definition of "agency" within the context of governmental operations. This change aims to clarify and broaden the scope of entities that are considered agencies, potentially impacting how they are regulated and held accountable under state law.

Key Provisions

• Expanded Definition: The bill proposes to include additional entities and organizations under the definition of "agency." This may encompass various public and quasi-public organizations that were previously not classified as agencies.
• Regulatory Implications: By expanding the definition, the bill may subject these newly defined agencies to existing regulations and oversight mechanisms that apply to traditional agencies.

Impact

• Affected Entities: The expansion of the definition could affect a wide range of organizations, including but not limited to:
  • Non-profit organizations that receive state funding
  • Public authorities and commissions
  • Other governmental entities that operate in a quasi-public capacity
• Accountability and Transparency: The bill is expected to enhance accountability and transparency in governmental operations by ensuring that more entities are subject to oversight.

Legislative Timeline

• January 08, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to Investigations and Government Operations.
• February 03, 2025: First report calendar.
• February 04, 2025: Second report calendar.
• February 05, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
• April 01, 2025: Passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly, where it was referred to Governmental Operations.

Related Bills

This bill is related to several prior-session bills that may share similar themes or objectives, including:
- S 4775
- S 5263
- S 1667
- S 3406
- A 2624 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill S 349 seeks to modernize and clarify the definition of "agency" in state law, potentially impacting a variety of organizations and enhancing regulatory oversight. As it progresses through the legislative process, stakeholders should monitor its developments closely to understand its implications fully.