Research

Scope and Content Note

The series consists of clippings of articles taken from newspapers throughout the state reporting on completed and recommended audits conducted by the Legislative Commission on Expenditure Review (LCER). The commission was charged with making continuing and comprehensive studies of state programs and expenditures in order to evaluate achievements. These program-wide audits assessed the impact each department or agency had on overall program objectives, and they reflect the LCER's research role to evaluate program achievement (efficiency and effectiveness) measured against legislative intent. Audited agencies responded to draft reports, and copies of the final reports were published and distributed to the legislature and the public.

The clippings include information on the commission's research, evaluations, and recommendations to legislative fiscal committees on a wide range of issues, or on audits of specific agencies or departments. The articles, editorials, and special features typically mention commission planning or audit work in relation to coverage of topical issues or as part of reports on the workings of the state legislature, especially in regard to allocation of tax dollars and assessing the quality of service provided by state programs.