Expanded audit authority approved

Lawmakers passed a bill March 1 that authorizes the Legislative Audit Office to conduct performance audits of two judicial branch offices.

Introduced by Syracuse Sen. Dan Watermeier, LB1016 subjects the Office of Probation Administration and the Office of Public Guardian to performance audits by the Legislative Audit Office. The office reviews state agency programs to ensure they effectively implement the Legislature’s intent.

The bill passed on a 49-0 vote.