South Birmingham Times

The Alabama Policy Institute (API) has announced the creation of a new entity called the Alabama Department of Government Efficiency, or ALDOGE. This initiative mirrors a recent proposal in Washington and aims to address issues of regulatory overreach and accountability within the state.

Stephanie Smith, President and CEO of API, stated, "Regulatory overreach and lack of accountability aren’t just federal problems. There are significant challenges at the state level too. (Alabama Department of Government Efficiency) will address these issues head-on, ensuring that Alabama taxpayers have a government that is efficient, transparent, and accountable."

The announcement follows President-elect Donald Trump's declaration last month about forming a new “Department of Government Efficiency.” Although not an official government agency, this department will be led by Elon Musk and former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. They are expected to provide advice to the White House and collaborate with the Office of Management and Budget on structural reforms.

API highlighted financial growth in Alabama's Education Trust Fund and General Fund as part of its rationale for ALDOGE. According to API, spending has increased by 52.3% over the past decade and 26.5% in the last five years alone. Despite this increase in funding, API claims there is little improvement in governmental efficiency or service responsiveness.

Since 2016, Alabama has seen record tax collection and spending each year without corresponding enhancements in public services, according to API's statement. The institute also reported increases in public school support staff positions by 3,332 over ten years and state vehicle registrations by 801 from 2014 to 2023.

API invites individuals to report instances of inefficiency or waste at any government level through its website, where they can also upload relevant documentation.