Existing law establishes the California State Auditor’s Office, headed by the California State Auditor and under the direction of the Milton Marks “Little Hoover” Commission on California State Government Organization and Economy, with specified duties that include, among others, conducting financial and performance audits as directed by statute. Existing law requires that the California State Auditor be chosen without reference to party affiliation and solely on the ground of fitness to perform the duties of the office and that, prior to selection, the California State Auditor possess a combination of education and experience in auditing and management necessary to perform the duties of the office. Under existing law, the California State Auditor is appointed by the Governor from a list of 3 qualified individuals nominated by the Joint Legislative Audit Committee (JLAC) by a vote of at least a majority of the committee membership from each house of the Legislature.

This bill would require JLAC to select the 3 qualified individuals from a pool of candidates after conducting a comprehensive search for qualified individuals. The bill would require JLAC to provide notice in a prescribed manner that it is seeking applicants for nomination as California State Auditor. The bill would authorize members of the Legislature, individuals, and entities to submit names for consideration by JLAC.