JLARC research process

In recent years, most JLARC studies have been directed by the commission itself through a JLARC study resolution. Studies can also be directed by the General Assembly when the House and Senate agree on a joint resolution.

Studies typically fall into one of several categories. JLARC can be directed to review the management and operations of a specific state agency (e.g. the Department of Motor Vehicles). JLARC can also be directed to evaluate single, usually large, programs or program areas that may be within a single or across multiple agencies (e.g. correctional education). Staff can also be directed to review current or even prospective policies (e.g. legalizing gaming).

Once a study is approved, it typically follows a standard research process (figure). Each study is assigned to a staff team, which refines the scope of the study and prepares a detailed work plan. The work plan identifies the specific issues or questions to be addressed and the research approach to be used. JLARC’s quality assurance team approves each project work plan.

The research for a study may include interviews with agency personnel, collection and analysis of data from agency records, written or electronic surveys of employees and/or customers, site visits, observation of processes, analysis of financial records, review of relevant literature and other research (such as a similar study in another state), and analysis of secondary data.

The team  then synthesizes its research and meets with the quality assurance team about its preliminary findings. The team then prepares a report that is reviewed internally and subjected to quality assurance standards. The draft is then distributed to appropriate agencies for their review and comment.

A revised draft, which also contains agency comments, is presented to the Commission at one of its monthly public meetings. The study leader briefs the study findings and recommendations at the meeting. All JLARC reports are published on the JLARC website.