HI HR15

Requests the State Auditor conduct a review of the efficacy of technology resources used by the Department of Health in its COVID-19 contact tracing efforts.

Directs the Auditor to make recommendations for improving Department of Health policies to achieve more timely and transparent COVID-19 tracking information and identify additional resources needed.

Cites COVID-19 pandemic as exposing structural problems including insufficient data science personnel, inadequate staffing, and outdated systems in the Department of Health.

Notes the Department withheld essential pandemic data, took five months to provide racial breakdowns of COVID-19 deaths, and six months to provide accurate contact tracer numbers.

Requires the Auditor to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2022 Regular Session convenes.