Newly sworn-in State Auditor Andrew Sorrell commended Gov. Kay Ivey on her decision to boost accountability in the state's use of government vehicles.
On Tuesday, Ivey signed Executive Order 728, requiring state agencies to establish policies to eliminate unnecessary state vehicles and to ensure the proper use of vehicles for official purposes.
The order also requires the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) to eliminate its State Motor Pool, which distributes at least 150 vehicles to employees across 148 state agencies.
Sorrell, who has pledged to increase his office's effect on eliminating state waste and fraud in his new position, took the chance to praise Ivey's order to eliminate state vehicle waste, saying the move will "undoubtedly save taxpayers a substantial amount of money."
"I didn't run for State Auditor so I could get my transportation paid for by the taxpayers," Sorrell said. "My Chevy Malibu may have 240,000 miles on it, but it still runs great. When you're trying to right-size government, I think it's important to lead by example."
He added, "I was so excited to see the steps Governor Ivey took this week to eliminate government waste. Our office stands ready and willing to assist the Governor with any future ideas she might have to save taxpayer money. My staff and I would be pleased to participate or lead any effort to accomplish that goal."
During the campaign trail, Sorrell expressed his desire to increase the investigative powers of the auditor's office. He also intends to seek legislative approval for his office to generate reports on fiscal waste in the state across state agencies.
Currently, the executive branch owns more than 9,000 vehicles to support a workforce of around 30,000 employees.
As a part of her executive order, Ivey sent memos asking state agencies to generate reports on state vehicles by December 9.
"As we enter the beginning of the next four years, it is imperative we ensure state government is efficient and being held accountable," Ivey said. "The principles of accountability, efficiency and transparency will guide us as we work towards making the necessary reforms to better serve all Alabamians."
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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