Establishes a performance audit division within the office of the auditor general.

Rhode Island Government Performance Audit and Accountability Act

This bill would create a new division inside Rhode Island's Office of the Auditor General specifically dedicated to performance audits of state government programs and agencies. Unlike traditional financial audits that check whether money was spent correctly, performance audits examine whether government programs are actually working — looking at efficiency, effectiveness, and whether taxpayer money is achieving its intended goals.

The new division would have the authority to review state agencies, programs, and spending to determine if they are operating as intended and delivering results. The findings from these audits would be reported to the General Assembly, giving lawmakers better information when making decisions about funding and policy. Essentially, it adds a layer of accountability by asking not just "did the government follow the rules?" but "is the government actually getting the job done?"

This bill affects Rhode Island state government broadly, including the agencies and programs being reviewed, as well as lawmakers who would use the audit results to guide decisions. Ultimately, it is designed to benefit Rhode Island taxpayers and residents by ensuring that public money is being spent effectively. The bill has been referred to the House State Government & Elections Committee and is scheduled for a hearing in April 2026.