Report #255, December 2020
OVERVIEW
The Little Hoover Commission – California’s independent government watchdog – today released its traditional biennial report, summarizing its oversight activities during the past two years and highlighting top opportunities for government reform.
As outlined in The Little Hoover Commission: Advocating for Change, 2019-20, the Commission released eight reports – including its 250th – during 2019-20. Those reports call on California to take greater action to strengthen California’s voting equipment security, implement Geographic Information Systems technologies, streamline the funding process for intimate partner violence service providers, identify and prosecute labor trafficking, and support small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the biennium the Commission introduced Issue Briefs, a new resource for state leaders that provides crucial data and background information on key challenges facing California. The Commission’s first Issue Brief, published in December 2020, focuses on the state’s digital divide. The Commission also created a blog that highlights the ways in which past recommendations remain relevant amid new events.
In 2020, the Commission responded to the pandemic by meeting more frequently and by holding a series of hearings on the economic impact of the recession. In all, the Commission met more than 20 times during 2020, more than doubling its traditional schedule. Prior to the pandemic, the Commission also resumed holding meetings around the state, holding meetings in both San Diego and Los Angeles.
“The Little Hoover Commission has been an advocate for reform in California for almost 60 years, and we’re continuing that tradition today,” said Commission Chairman Pedro Nava. “We are eager to continue our work to improve California government.”
The report also includes Ideas for Change, a list of recommendations for government reform generated by the Commission through its work over the past several years.
“We look forward to partnering with state leaders to implement these recommendations for lasting change that will positively impact California,” said Vice Chairman Sean Varner.