Member items should be itemized

Member items are a way for legislators to direct funds to address specific needs in their community.

Traditionally, I designate state funds to organizations or projects that benefit and serve all people in my Assembly District. Regrettably, the current structure of the member item system lumps all projects into one line item on the state budget, causing a lack of accountability and the appearance of impropriety. This practice was started by the Assembly Democrat majority to prevent the governor from using line-item veto power against unsupportive legislators.

Our goal should be to replace the current system with one that gives full disclosure of state funds by itemizing each member item. We can accomplish this by listing the sponsor and organization receiving money, along with the purpose and dollar amount of the grant.