State Auditor Dave Boliek released the following statement on the veto of House Bill 549, "Clarify Powers of State Auditor":
"Our agency bill was written to protect the independence of the State Auditor's Office. Throughout the process we were transparent, incorporating feedback from legislators and the governor's office.
"The autonomy and independence of watchdog agencies like the State Auditor's Office, especially with regard to information technology and our ability to examine data when conducting audits, is critical to our mission.
"Governor Stein's veto undercuts the important principles of accountability and transparency that taxpayers expect from their government. Further, as the governor is aware, our office already has the authority to hold those who receive tax dollars accountable. I have confidence the legislature will stand up for these principles and override the governor's veto."