Rep. Lepore-Hagan provides sponsor testimony on academic distress commission audit bill

COLUMBUS- State Rep. Michele Lepore-Hagan (D-Youngstown) today gave sponsor testimony on HB 529, legislation that would require one-time performance audits of school districts with a current Academic Distress Commission (ADC).

“Taxpayers are entitled to a comprehensive understanding of how their money is being spent in their public schools and whether those responsible for their dollars are actually investing them in our children and their education,” said Rep. Lepore-Hagan. “Right now, CEO’s have way too much discretion and not enough transparency in their decision-making. HB 529 is a chance to pull back the curtains.”

Introduced by Rep. Joe Miller (D-Amherst), Rep. Michele Lepore-Hagan (D-Youngstown) and Kent Smith (D-Euclid), HB 529 would allow taxpayers in Lorain, East Cleveland, and Youngstown City Schools to receive a first-time performance audit since the state takeover of these districts. A state audit would notify the public of any indiscretions, waste, or fraud under the ADC and CEO model.