Will Massachusetts legislators finally reconsider their long-standing habit of missing deadlines? | John L. Micek

Massachusetts Legislature faces criticism for failure to adhere to deadlines, including passing an on-time budget and completing bills during formal sessions. Top Democrats in the Legislature acknowledged the need for reevaluation of how business is conducted, considering the lack of adherence to deadlines and the perception of inefficiency among voters. A recent poll showed a low approval rating for the Legislature’s job performance. In response to voter discontent, a ballot question was approved to give the state Auditor the right to audit the Legislature. House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka expressed openness to improving transparency while respecting the constitutional separation of powers. The House took the first step towards transparency by allowing the Auditor to select an independent auditor. The Senate, on the other hand, did not plan to take similar action yet. Both chambers expressed intentions to continue exploring ways to increase transparency in the future. The slow progress towards increased transparency is seen as a step in the right direction, despite the challenges of changing established practices in the Massachusetts Legislature. Efforts to improve transparency and adherence to deadlines will likely continue into the new session starting in 2025.

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