Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency: A Win for Limited Government Advocates

Estimated Time to Read: 5 minutes

The Texas House of Representatives has established a new committee aimed at improving the effectiveness and efficiency of state government operations. Named the Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency (DOGE), this 13-member panel—comprised of 8 Republicans and 5 Democrats—is tasked with tackling inefficiencies in government services, reviewing agency regulations, and overseeing cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies.

For advocates of limited government, fiscal responsibility, and regulatory reform, this committee represents a unique opportunity to reduce bureaucratic waste, enhance transparency, and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.

The committee members consist of the following House lawmakers:

• Chairman: State Rep. Giovanni Capriglione (R-Southlake)
• Vice-Chairman: State Rep. Salman Bhojani (D-Euless)
• Members:
  • State Rep. Daniel Alders (R-Tyler)
  • State Rep. Rhetta Bowers (D-Rowlett)
  • State Rep. Briscoe Cain (R-Deer Park)
  • State Rep. Liz Campos (D-San Antonio)
  • State Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield)
  • State Rep. Pat Curry (R-Waco)
  • State Rep. Linda Garcia (D-Mesquite)
  • State Rep. Mike Olcott (R-Aledo)
  • State Rep. Ana-Maria Rodríguez Ramos (D-Richardson)
  • State Rep. Tony Tinderholt (R-Arlington)
  • State Rep. Ellen Troxclair (R-Lakeway)

A Broad Jurisdiction for Reform

The DOGE Committee’s jurisdiction covers a wide range of critical policy areas, including:

• Government Operations & Oversight: Reviewing the organization, operation, and regulatory authority of state departments and agencies.

• Eliminating Inefficiencies: Identifying and removing wasteful or redundant government services.

• Regulatory Accountability: Strengthening oversight of agency rulemaking and judicial review.

• Open Government: Enhancing transparency through open records and meetings.

• Technology & Innovation: Exploring how artificial intelligence, automation, and other innovations can improve government operations.

• Cybersecurity & Privacy: Addressing issues related to identity theft, cybersecurity threats, and data protection.

• Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Investigations: Conducting inquiries into mismanagement in state programs.

• Oversight of Key State Agencies: Including the Department of Information Resources, the Sunset Advisory Commission, and the Texas Space Commission.

With such a vast jurisdiction, the DOGE Committee has the potential to modernize Texas governance, eliminate regulatory roadblocks, and prevent unnecessary government expansion.

An Opportunity for Limited Government Supporters

State Rep. Briscoe Cain (R-Deer Park), a member of the DOGE Committee, recently posed an important question: “Should the DOGE Committee of the Texas House of Representatives have oversight over the General Appropriations Act?”

While this responsibility isn’t explicitly within the committee’s jurisdiction, it’s a compelling idea. If implemented, it could serve as a critical check on runaway government spending at the state level. Currently, only a small number of lawmakers play a significant role in shaping the state budget, as most deliberations occur behind closed doors before the legislative session even begins. Expanding oversight could bring much-needed transparency and accountability to the budget process.

Cutting Bureaucratic Waste and Inefficiency

One of the most promising aspects of this committee is its focus on eliminating inefficiencies in the provision of state services. Over time, Texas government agencies have expanded their regulatory scope, leading to increased costs, administrative delays, and unnecessary red tape.

The DOGE Committee provides a platform to push for deregulation and the reduction of outdated or duplicative government functions. By examining agency rulemaking processes, the committee can ensure that government intervention is limited to necessary and constitutionally valid roles.

Promoting Transparency and Open Government

Transparency is essential for holding government agencies accountable. The DOGE Committee’s jurisdiction over open records and open meetings creates an opportunity to improve access to public information and prevent government secrecy from shielding inefficiencies or misconduct.

For limited government advocates, pushing for stronger public access to government records and limiting executive overreach is a crucial way to ensure state agencies remain accountable to taxpayers.

Ensuring Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies

The committee’s focus on artificial intelligence and emerging technology signals a growing recognition of the role these tools play in government efficiency, cybersecurity, and economic development.

However, while AI and automation can improve efficiency, they also pose risks if mismanaged by bureaucratic institutions. Ensuring AI adoption aligns with principles of free enterprise, individual liberty, and limited government should be a priority.

Strengthening Cybersecurity and Protecting Privacy Rights

With cyber threats on the rise, the DOGE Committee’s jurisdiction over cybersecurity and identity theft protections is vital. While government agencies often propose broad regulatory interventions, limited government supporters should advocate for market-driven solutions, such as private-sector innovation and decentralized security measures.

Protecting individual privacy from overreaching data collection and government surveillance should be a top priority for those who value personal liberty.

Oversight of the Sunset Advisory Commission: A Key to Limited Government

One of the most influential agencies under the DOGE Committee’s purview is the Sunset Advisory Commission. This commission is tasked with reviewing state agencies to determine their necessity and recommending reforms or eliminations.

Through careful oversight of the Sunset process, the DOGE Committee can identify outdated or redundant agencies, reduce the size of government, and ensure that agencies remain accountable to taxpayers.

This is an important avenue for promoting a smaller, more efficient government.

What’s Next? Advocating for Meaningful Reform

As the Texas Legislature moves forward, the DOGE Committee will play a crucial role in shaping how government operates. For those who support limited government, staying engaged in committee proceedings, submitting public testimony, and advocating for reforms that reduce waste and protect individual freedoms will be key.

Some areas to watch include recommendations for cutting unnecessary government programs, legislation aimed at limiting bureaucratic overreach, cybersecurity politics that protect privacy without expanding government surveillance, oversight hearings on agency mismanagement, and ensuring the responsible application of AI and emerging technology.

The formation of this committee is a positive step toward ensuring government efficiency and accountability—but only if lawmakers seize the opportunity to rein in excessive bureaucracy and uphold principles of free enterprise, personal responsibility, and limited government.

Conclusion

The newly created Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the Texas House presents a significant opportunity for those who believe in limited government and fiscal responsibility. By focusing on cutting inefficiencies, promoting transparency, strengthening oversight, and leveraging technology wisely, this committee has the potential to reshape Texas government for the better.

As this legislative session unfolds, it’s critical for advocates of free markets and small government to stay engaged. Whether through public testimony, policy recommendations, or grassroots activism, now is the time to ensure that Texas remains a model for responsible governance and individual liberty.

Texas Policy Research relies on the support of generous donors across Texas.
If you found this information helpful, please consider supporting our efforts! Thank you!