What happens if ballot question on auditing the Massachusetts legislature passes?

BOSTON (WWLP) – State Auditor Diana DiZoglio has a question on the November ballot which looks to grant her the ability to investigate the legislature. But a new study shows that even if it passes, an audit may be limited.

Supporters of this ballot question say an audit would increase transparency and accountability for the state government, which has a reputation for being secretive.

A report released by the Tufts’ Center for State Policy and Analysis found that some legislative branch activities are off-limits to the executive branch–which DiZoglio is part of.

Activities like votes and committee assignments are part of a group that is off-limits and would not be able to be examined. An audit may be able to look into “non-core” activities–such as cybersecurity practices or employee training–but this comes with a catch.

This Tufts report found that state audits are only effective with the cooperation of the legislature.

While House Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka have said they would not be running opposing campaigns to the ballot question, they have both expressed the opinion that an audit would violate the principles of separation of power.

The report notes that the legislature has three paths forward if this question passes:

• Challenge the question in court
• Pass a bill overturning the question
• Or cut or limit funding to the auditor’s office.

This ballot question comes after DiZoglio tried to audit the legislature several times, but she was blocked by head lawmakers.

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