NY Spending and Government Efficiency (SAGE) Commission Named

On April 19, 2011, Governor Cuomo issued a [press release] naming members of the SAGE Commission. The press release states that “SAGE is the first major redesign of state government since Governor Alfred E. Smith in 1927.” This commission is charged with conducting “a comprehensive review of state government including its structures, operations and processes, with the ultimate goal of saving taxpayers’ money, increasing accountability and improving the delivery of government services.”

While final recommendations are not due until June 1, 2012, the release indicates that progress reports will be delivered on an ongoing basis and that “the state has already begun the process of consolidating a number of state agencies including … Merging Banking and Insurance Departments to create the new Department of Financial Regulation.” Jim Corcoran, Superintendent of Insurance from 1983 to 1990 is a member of the SAGE commission. He appears to be the sole member of the commission that has a background in insurance.