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HB 754

RELATING TO COMMUNITY SCHOOLS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 8 co-sponsors

House Bill 754 establishes an internal auditor for Catoosa County schools, enhancing accountability and transparency in resource management and operations.

The committee on EDU deferred the measure.
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Bill Summary · HB 754

Summary of House Bill 754: Relating to Community Schools

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 754
Introduced: March 10, 2025
Status: Deferred by the committee on EDU
Classification: Legislative Bill
Subject: Appropriation ($), Community Schools, Department of Education (DOE)

House Bill 754 aims to amend the existing legislation governing the Board of Education of Catoosa County, Georgia, by establishing an internal audit function within the board. This initiative is designed to enhance accountability and transparency in the management of school resources and operations.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 754 is to:
- Establish an internal auditor position within the Catoosa County Board of Education.
- Ensure that the board conducts regular audits to assess compliance with laws and regulations, as well as the effectiveness and efficiency of its operations.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant provisions, including:

  1. Internal Auditor Appointment:

    • The internal auditor will be appointed by the board from a list of nominees provided by members of the General Assembly representing the school district.
    • The position can be filled by an individual employed by the board or an account manager from an external firm.

  2. Qualifications:

    • The internal auditor must be a certified internal auditor or a certified public accountant with at least five years of experience.
    • Residency in the school district is not required for appointment.

  3. Duties and Responsibilities:

    • Conduct one- and five-year performance and financial audits of the school system.
    • Assess compliance with laws, evaluate resource management, and identify inefficiencies.
    • Submit annual reports to the board and the General Assembly detailing audit findings and corrective actions.

  4. Access to Information:

    • The internal auditor will have immediate access to all relevant records, documents, and facilities necessary for conducting audits.
    • Confidential information will be presented to the board in closed sessions.

  5. Sunset Provision:

    • The provisions governing the internal auditor will be repealed on July 1, 2030, unless renewed.

Affected Parties

  • Catoosa County Board of Education: The board will be required to implement the internal audit function and cooperate with the auditor.
  • School District Employees: All officers and employees must provide access to necessary records and information for audits.
  • General Assembly Members: They will play a role in nominating candidates for the auditor position.

Procedural Timeline

  • March 10, 2025: Bill introduced.
  • March 12, 2025: The committee on EDU deferred the measure.
  • March 21, 2025: House passed the bill.
  • March 28, 2025: Senate passed the bill.
  • May 14, 2025: Signed by the Governor and became Act 322, effective immediately.

Conclusion

House Bill 754 represents a significant step towards improving oversight and accountability within the Catoosa County educational system. By instituting an internal audit function, the bill aims to ensure that school resources are managed effectively and in compliance with applicable laws, ultimately benefiting the educational environment for students and staff alike.

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

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