BOSTON — A potential, major legal battle is brewing on Beacon Hill.
The State Auditor is squaring off against the House Speaker and Senate President for the right to audit the legislature. A measure voters approved in November. And, another deadline in this debate lands on Monday.
“If there’s nothing to hide, then open up the books, let the sunshine in, and let’s look and make sure that we are able to identify potential challenges,” said State Auditor Diana DiZoglio.
DiZoglio says she is ready to open the books and the audit of the Massachusetts state legislature after nearly 72% of voters in the Commonwealth called for in passing of Question 1 on the ballot in November.
But leaders at the State House have pushed back citing separation of powers.
“These are taxpayer dollars. It’s important that we are able to view financial receipts, state contracts, procurement procedures,” DiZoglio said. As well as the government’s use of NDAs or non-disclosure agreements.
DiZoglio sent a letter to Senate President Karen Spilka and House Speaker Ron Mariano asking them to prepare to cooperate and respond by Monday. The law tied to Question 1 took effect officially on Friday, January 3rd.
“That legislative leaders will finally start to cooperate with the Office of State auditor for an audit that every other state entity receives to help make government work better,” DiZoglio said during an interview.
Boston 25 News reached out to Spilka and Mariano. Their offices said they have received the letter and are reviewing it.
DiZoglio believes it’s clear that lawmakers should abide by the law.
“The legislature is not above the law,” she said.
State leaders have suggested identifying an independent firm to conduct the audit.
DiZoglio believes that is lawmakers’ attempt to control it.
She says if State House leaders don’t cooperate, her office will be pursuing litigation and court action through the Attorney General’s office.
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