Senator Marcellino’s School Audit Legislation Passes Senate

Legislation sponsored by Senator Carl Marcellino (R, Syosset), that directs the New York State Comptroller to conduct fiscal audits of each school district, BOCES and charter schools in the state every five years passes the Senate.

This legislation is related to an appropriation of $2.9 million included the 2005-06 state budget to help additional school district audits by the Comptroller. These in-depth audits will be conducted to look for any fiscal irregularities that could indicate that taxpayers funds are being misspent.

"We need to insure a level of accountability that protects students, school districts and taxpayers from fraud. It has become an unfortunate reality that we need to make sure that 2+2 still equals 4 when it comes to school finances," said Senator Carl L. Marcellino

"Each year schools across the State spend billions of dollars in direct State and local aid. These taxpayer dollars should be accounted for and available for review on a regular basis. While the great majority of schools in New York State are conducting their finances in a prudent manner, there is always the risk that someone is not. Currently, the Comptroller is only auditing six to ten school districts each year; far to few. This legislation will correct that," concluded Senator Marcellino.

S.890A