Office of Legislative Budget Assistant - Concord, NH

Fiscal Oversight for the General Court

The Office of Legislative Budget Assistant (LBA) is a non-partisan legislative service agency dedicated to providing objective financial and operational information to the New Hampshire General Court. Located in downtown Concord, with offices in the State House Annex and surrounding state buildings (including the location at 143 North Main Street), the LBA serves as the legislative branch's check on the executive and judicial branches. The office is overseen by the Joint Legislative Fiscal Committee and is divided into two primary functional areas: the Audit Division and the Budget Division. Its mission is to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the use of public funds. The LBA provides legislators with the data and analysis necessary to make informed decisions regarding the state budget, agency performance, and fiscal policy. By maintaining independence from the agencies it reviews, the LBA acts as a guardian of the public trust, producing reports that are critical for legislative oversight.

Audit Division Services

The Audit Division constitutes a significant portion of the LBA's operations. It is responsible for conducting comprehensive audits of state agencies, departments, boards, and commissions. These audits fall into two main categories: financial audits and performance audits. Financial audits verify that an agency's financial statements are accurate and that public funds are being handled in accordance with accounting standards and state laws. Performance audits go a step further, evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of government programs to determine if they are achieving their intended goals. The findings from these audits are published and often lead to legislative recommendations for improving state operations. The division adheres to Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS), ensuring the highest level of professional rigor.

• Financial Audits: Examining agency accounts and financial records.
• Performance Audits: Assessing program effectiveness and efficiency.
• Compliance Reviews: Ensuring adherence to state laws and regulations.
• Special Investigations: Conducting inquiries as directed by the Fiscal Committee.

Budgeting and Fiscal Analysis

The Budget Division provides essential technical support to the House Finance Committee and the Senate Finance Committee during the state's biennial budget process. Staff members analyze the Governor's budget proposals, track revenue trends, and estimate the fiscal impact of proposed legislation. One of the division's key outputs is the production of 'Fiscal Notes,' which are attached to bills to inform legislators of the potential cost or revenue implications of the proposed law on state, county, and local governments. The Budget Division also monitors state spending throughout the year, providing regular updates to the Fiscal Committee on whether revenues are meeting projections and if agencies are staying within their budget limits. This ongoing surveillance helps prevent deficits and ensures long-term fiscal stability for New Hampshire.

Public Resources and Transparency

While the LBA primarily serves the legislature, its work is highly relevant to the public. Audit reports and fiscal analyses are public documents, available to citizens who wish to understand how their tax dollars are being managed. The office maintains a website where these reports can be accessed. The LBA also assists in the training of legislative committee members regarding state finance and accounting procedures. Located near the historic State House, the office is part of the broader legislative complex that facilitates the democratic process in the Granite State. Through its rigorous analysis and impartial reporting, the Office of Legislative Budget Assistant plays an indispensable role in the governance of New Hampshire.