SPOTLIGHT ON SPENDING

Executive Summary

This report identifies past, current, and future instances of non-essential or wasteful spending by the State of Rhode Island, as well as steps lawmakers can take to save money now and prevent similar instances in future years. Click here for the full report now.

Almost $225 million in non-essential spending has been identified and organized into multiple categories.  The list provides policymakers with opportunities for budget savings without cutting essential services and programs.  The categories are:

  • Handouts
  • Absorption of federal funding
  • Government operations
  • Government personnel
  • Government overreach

The report further recommends that checks and balances be put in place to safeguard taxpayers against frivolous future spending, including:

  • Establishment of a fully empowered Office of the Inspector General
  • Creation of a legislative Office of the Repealer
  • Establishment of a state version of a Grace Commission