Selectmen support audit of state Legislature

At Tuesday night’s meeting, the Saugus Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to send a letter to state legislative leaders expressing support for an audit of the state Legislature. “The Saugus Board of Selectmen writes to express strong support for implementing Question 1 from the November 2024 ballot, Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta wrote in a letter addressed to Speaker of the House Ronald Mariano and President of the Senate Karen E. Spilka.

“The Saugus voters approved Question 1 by 71.9 percent, joining with 72 percent of voters statewide, authorizing State Auditor Diana DiZoglio to audit the Massachusetts Legislature, the letter continued.

“The Legislature remains the only state entity that does not permit oversight by the State Auditor’s Office. While legislative leaders have claimed that internal audits conducted by a privately procured vendor are sufficient, the voters of Massachusetts have clearly expressed their desire for independent review. At a time when the Massachusetts Legislature ranks among the least transparent in the nation and is one of only four state legislatures exempt from public records laws, independent auditing is essential.

“Government entities that self-regulate pose risks of self interest and reduced accountability to voters. Implementing this audit would enhance government transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility. The Massachusetts Legislature shouldn’t be exempt from independent oversight, especially regarding the use of taxpayer funds.

“We urge you to take the necessary steps to honor the will of the voters and allow the State Auditor’s Office to proceed with this audit.”

Selectman Michael Serino noted that all 351 cities and towns are required to do a yearly audit. “I don’t see why the state Legislature should be exempt. They should do a yearly audit, too, to see that taxpayers’ money is spent appropriately,” Serino said.

He also noted that the board has a good working relationship with the Saugus legislative delegation. “This is not about them in particular. This is about conducting yearly financial audits. Making sure the taxpayers’ dollars are appropriated and spent on issues that are appropriate and the bidding process is followed.”