The Rhode Island House of Representatives. WPRO file photo.
WPRO Newsroom and the Associated Press
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – Quasi-public agencies in Rhode Island like the Turnpike and Bridge Authority and Airport Corp. would get new rules on accountability and ethics under legislation passed by state lawmakers.
The new rules also require these agencies to conduct performance reviews every three years so lawmakers and the public can see how they're carrying out their missions.
The state has more than a dozen quasi-public agencies, which were created by the state and but whose boards can act independently of the Legislature and governor.
The bill's sponsor, Sen. James Sheehan, says the idea is to ensure quasi-public boards are held accountable to the public.
The legislation awaits action by Gov. Lincoln Chafee, a Democrat.
