Baldwin authors Senate priority bill dealing with fiscal integrity

Submitted

State Sen. Scott Baldwin (R-Noblesville) has filed a bill whose purpose is to improve government efficiency and accountability.

Senate Bill 5 has three working components: state contract accountability, oversight of new federal funds and programs, and efficiency in government staffing.

“Indiana is known as one of the most fiscally responsible states in the nation, but SB 5 would ensure that our state continues to responsibly invest taxpayer dollars,” Baldwin said. “The General Assembly creates a state budget that reasonably and responsibly allocates funds, but we can improve or track and manage how that money is spent.”

State contract accountability

The first section of SB 5 requires that state agencies to provide updates when an agency awards a contract worth $500,000 or more. This includes, but is not limited to, agencies providing quarterly updates on the contract to the State Budget Committee and a review process from the State Budget Committee if an agency wants to make amendments to a contract.

Furthermore, if vendors do not adequately execute contracts, they can be placed on a “no-bid” list from the state. This list would prohibit vendors from bidding on state government contracts for five years maximum.

“When the state awards a contract, Hoosier taxpayers expect results,” Baldwin said. “This added transparency will help hold our government accountable.”

Oversight of new federal funds & programs

The second section of SB 5 states that if agencies would like to be granted funds or membership of a new federal program, they must submit a report to the State Budget Committee first to get approval. Additionally, if the program or fund requires the state to match the amount of money requested, the State Budget Committee would have to review the proposal before an agency could apply.

Efficiency in government staffing

SB 5 also proposes that the State Budget Director review any vacant position that has been open for at least 90 days to see if the position is no longer needed. The bill also authorizes the State Personal Director to reallocate or eliminate a fulltime position that has been open for at least 90 days.

“I believe SB 5 will offer more transparency between state agencies and taxpayers,” Baldwin said. “This is not a bill to point fingers at anyone, and we are fortunate to have many dedicated public servants who work hard to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars. I have been in regular contact with Gov. Mike Braun and his team, and have provided helpful feedback that is reflected in this bill.”

SB 5 was amended in the Senate Committee on Appropriations to eliminate the use of nonpublic contracts beginning in 2026 and require that all new contracts must be competitively procured. Additionally, the amendment added language providing for the creation of a workgroup to review Medicaid spending and program utilization as well as the submission of quarterly reports to the State Budget Committee.

As the 2025 session gets underway, Baldwin encourages residents of Senate District 20 to contact him with any questions or comments they may have. Baldwin can be reached by filling out a “Contact Me” form online at IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Baldwin or by phone at (800) 382-9467.

State Sen. Scott Baldwin (R-Noblesville) represents Senate District 20, which includes Noblesville, Carmel, Cicero and unincorporated areas of Hamilton County.