Dear Friends and Neighbors:

Ten years ago, the State began a plan to overhaul its aging payroll computer system. A quarter of a billion dollars later, the failed 21st Century Project has been shelved.

Government needs to be accountable to the people. To me that means government should do the right thing and we should always let people know what we are doing with their money.

Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg asked me to convene an oversight hearing on the failed overhaul of the computer payroll system. The first hearing was held last week and there will be at least one more hearing in the next few weeks.

California cannot continue to do business as usual and we must ensure we can achieve lasting changes. We have an obligation to do this for California taxpayers.

I am committed to working with my colleagues to find the best way to fix this huge problem and hold government accountable.

Without accountability and transparency, the faith and trust of California taxpayers is eroded. As your State Senator, I intend to hold our government to a higher standard.

It is always an honor to serve you.

Respectfully,

RICHARD D. ROTH
Senator, 31st District