Article
The state has many agencies that carry out the functions of state government, such as the Texas Education Agency and the Texas Workforce Commission. The Sunset Commission provides the legislature with some oversight of these agencies. The Sunset Commission is comprised of legislators and public members appointed by the Lt. Governor and the Speaker of the House, and its goal is to make the government smaller, smarter and more efficient.
Agencies come up for review before the legislature at least every twelve years; the reviews are staggered, so that an average of 25 agencies come up for review in any given session. During the interim, the Sunset Commission compiles reports on the agencies scheduled to be reviewed in the upcoming session. The Sunset process sets a date for an agency to be abolished unless legislation is passed allowing the agency's continuation. Most agencies are not abolished, but rather undergo changes to their operations and goals. The Sunset Commission has become a powerful tool for legislators by enabling them to look in-depth at the way government agencies are performing and by providing the opportunity for change.
By ensuring a regular review of agencies, the sunset commission is able to weed out antiquated and unnecessary agencies and policies. Also, because the reviews are so extensive, the possibility of a review by the commission usually spurs the agency to improve its overall performance. Through the Sunset process, constituent complaints are resolved faster, cost-saving initiatives are taken, and long-term projects are completed, thus saving taxpayers' money.
This session there are 29 agencies up for review, including the Department of Economic Development, the Department of Health, Department of Human Services, the Lottery Commission and the Workforce Commission. These agencies have been reviewed by the legislature and bills have been offered that will enact the Sunset Commission's recommendations. A complete list of the Sunset Commission's reports to the legislature and the corresponding legislation are available through the Sunset Commission's website, www.sunset.state.tx.us. The public is encouraged to provide input about any problems or recommendations they may have regarding state agencies. There is a link through the site for the public to register their opinions directly with the Sunset Commission Staff.
I encourage you to contact me during these last few weeks of the legislative session. You can reach me by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us.
Gallery