NJ S3136

Governor would appoint a Chief Accountability Officer to serve in the Office of the Governor, requiring Senate confirmation for a five-year term with removal only for cause.

The Chief Accountability Officer would supervise 17 state oversight positions including the State Comptroller, various ombudsmen (corrections, long-term care, insurance claims, special education, student loan), inspectors general, and compliance officers across multiple departments.

All supervised officers must conduct audits, investigations, and reviews in consultation and coordination with the Chief Accountability Officer, following state laws and national professional standards.

The Chief Accountability Officer must meet with supervised officers at least twice annually to facilitate communication, avoid duplication of efforts, optimize resources, and prevent unnecessary expenditure of public funds.

Annual reports to the Governor and Legislature are required, with all state departments mandated to cooperate and provide requested information and assistance.