To the editor:

In November 2024, Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly approved Question 1, authorizing the independently elected State Auditor to audit the Legislature. Nearly 72% of voters supported the measure, sending a clear message that they wanted greater transparency and accountability on Beacon Hill.

Yet on June 3, the Massachusetts House voted to pass House Bill 5469, legislation that critics argue would significantly limit the Auditor’s ability to conduct the meaningful legislative oversight voters approved.

Disappointingly, Peabody Reps. Thomas Walsh and Sally Kerans voted in favor of the bill. Whether one supported Question 1 or not, the voters have already spoken. Attempts to narrow its implementation undermine public trust and raise concerns about whether elected officials are respecting the will of the people.

Massachusetts residents did not vote for symbolic oversight. They voted for an independent review of the Legislature, just as other state agencies are subject to audit and scrutiny.

I urge Sen. Joan Lovely, her colleagues in the Senate, and Gov. Maura Healey to preserve the intent of Question 1 and reject efforts that weaken its effectiveness. Transparency and accountability are not partisan issues; they are essential principles of representative government.

The people of Massachusetts deserve a government that welcomes scrutiny, not one that limits it.

Dennis Collyer
Peabody