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Guest Column |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Matthew H. Smith
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Monday, June 29, 2009
Allow residents to track state spending online
By state Rep. Matthew H. Smith
I believe it's important for lawmakers to bring trust, transparency and accountability to state government, and one way we can do that is by providing residents with the tools they need to be more informed on state spending.
A bill that I co-sponsored would do just that, allowing people to track state government spending and contracts from the convenience of their own home with just a few clicks on a computer.
The proposal has been dubbed PennWatch, which stands for Pennsylvania Web Accountability, Transparency and Contract Hub. The Web site, which would be developed by the state Treasurer's Office, would give state taxpayers a user-friendly place to track how their hard-earned money is spent.
This proposal comes at a time when the General Assembly is debating a budget during these difficult financial times. Many of you have written or called to express your opinion on a variety of state expenditures. This site would help you gather the information you deserve and have an even greater voice in our decision making.
Much of that information is available piecemeal through a variety of databases and files. But you should not have to jump through a series of hoops to find information about your money. This innovation would give you a one stop shop in examining the state's checkbook.
Ever since I took office in 2007, I have thrown myself behind reform measures that make government operate efficiently and effectively such as cutting the size of the legislature. They have further ranged from steps to make sure the Allegheny County pension fund stays fiscally sound to seeking a reduction in the General Assembly's budget.
I believe H.B. 1460 is another one of those measures.
At least 20 other states have Web sites that allow residents to track state spending. I believe Pennsylvania state government should join them in letting the sun shine on its finances.
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