Government Accountability

* And Transparency
* In Contracting

“…the American people have every right to expect and to demand a government that is more efficient, more accountable, and more responsible in keeping the public’s trust.”

President
Barack Obama
Government Accountability

In 2009 Oregon and Congress are going to invest in job creation through updating our infrastructure and green jobs. Much of this work will be done by private contractors, providing jobs for thousands who need them. Over the past 15 years, state and local governments have shifted many public services to private contractors, looking to save money, increase efficiency, and maintain quality. At the same time, Oregon laws regarding contracting have not kept pace to ensure quality and cost-savings. While other states have increased their transparency and accountability, Oregon has not. With an influx of infrastructure projects to jump-start the economy, it is critical that Oregon can show taxpayers how the money being spent and can evaluate its effectiveness. Learning from other states, Oregon can increase government accountability and transparency.

On this website you can find out about Oregon’s problems with contracting and the solutions that are being proposed in 2009.

In 2009 a coalition of groups have come together to increase transparency and accountability in contracting. HB 2037 will increase transparency by requiring information about contracts online and in a report and HB 2867 will increase quality standards, accountability, and oversight of contracts.