Sheehan supports quasi-public agency oversight bill

PROVIDENCE — Sen. James C. Sheehan, D-North Kingstown, announced his support for a bill sponsored by Sen. J. Michael Lenihan, D-East Greenwich to create a legislative panel to oversee to the state’s quasi public agencies. The bill would define a quasi-public agency, concentrate all the laws related to such agencies, and create an oversight committee to review issues of efficiency, effectiveness and accountability related to the agencies. Gov. Lincoln Almond through a staff spokesperson has expressed concern about creating an agency to oversee quasi-public agencies whose members would include members of the General Assembly. Senate action is expected soon.