Senate Republicans Praise Joint Legislative Audit Committees' Historic Year Exposing Waste, Protecting Taxpayer Dollars

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                            Thursday, December 18, 2025

Senate Republicans Praise Joint Legislative Audit Committees' Historic Year Exposing Waste, Protecting Taxpayer Dollars

PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senate Republicans are praising the Joint Legislative Audit Committee (JLAC) for its outstanding performance this year in holding government operations accountable, promoting transparency, and reducing waste of taxpayer dollars. Under the leadership of Chairman Mark Finchem, JLAC and the Office of the Auditor General achieved a record-setting outcome this session, producing 239 audit reports and making 1,078 recommendations based on audit findings. These figures show significant increases from last year's totals of 206 reports and 945 recommendations. They mark the strongest performance in audits and findings over the past five years, reinforcing the Legislature's commitment to steward public funds responsibly.

The Office of the Auditor General is responsible for independently reviewing state agencies, boards, commissions, programs, and expenditures to ensure compliance with Arizona law, operational efficiency, and proper use of taxpayer resources. Through performance audits, financial reviews, sunset and special audits, the Auditor General provides lawmakers and the public with clear, data-driven insights into government operations. This year's remarkable output demonstrates not only the dedication of Auditor General Lindsey Perry and her team but also the focused leadership of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee in prioritizing accountability, transparency, and measurable results for Arizona taxpayers.

"Protecting the public purse is one of the most important responsibilities of the Legislature, and this year, JLAC has set a gold standard," said Senate President Warren Petersen. "We are thankful for the exceptional work of Chairman Finchem and the Auditor General, whose dedication to transparency and fiscal responsibility has identified waste, enhanced oversight, and ensured that taxpayer dollars are used appropriately."

"The numbers are clear: JLAC is fulfilling its purpose by asking tough questions, demanding answers, and illuminating how the Arizona government operates," said Chairman Finchem. "I am proud of the Auditor General and her dedicated team for achieving the most productive year in recent history. Without the Auditor General's outstanding performance, Arizonans wouldn't have insight into how their tax dollars are spent.  I also appreciate the Senate and House's support as we continue to advocate for accountability on behalf of Arizona taxpayers."

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For more information, contact:

Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus

kquintero@azleg.gov