RESOLVED, That a senate commission be and the same is hereby created consisting of five (5) members: five (5) of whom shall be from the senate, not more than four (4) from the same political party, to be appointed by the majority leader.
In lieu of any appointment of a member of the legislature to a permanent advisory commission, a legislative study commission, or any commission created by a general assembly resolution, the appointing authority may appoint a member of the general public to serve in lieu of a legislator, provided that the majority leader or the minority leader of the political party which is entitled to the appointment consents to the appointment of the member of the general public.
The purpose of said commission shall be to study the feasibility of Rhode Island becoming a pilot project state for the automation and computerization of government services, and for the establishment of an integrated computer communications and terminal network for the delivery of government benefits and services, including electronic benefits transfer (EBT).
Forthwith upon passage of this resolution, the members of the commission shall meet at the call of the senate and organize and shall select from among the legislators a chairperson. Vacancies in said commission shall be filled in like manner as the original appointment.
The membership of said commission shall receive no compensation for their services.
All departments and agencies of the state shall furnish such advice and information, documentary and otherwise, to said commission and its agents as is deemed necessary or desirable by the commission to facilitate the purposes of this resolution. The commission may also consult with or seek testimony from nongovernmental sources having knowledge in this area.
The joint committee on legislative services is hereby authorized and directed to provide suitable quarters for said commission; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the commission shall report its findings and recommendations to the general assembly on or before January 29, 1997 and said commission shall expire on March 29, 1997.
