This legislation makes changes to the development authority law including a provision that no longer requires the Attorney General or the district attorney to appear in validation hearings or subsequent proceedings. In their absence, the authority shall bear the burden of making their case for bond validation.

 This legislation creates the Senate Entrepreneur in Residence Study Committee to examine impediments to entrepreneurs. The program would have two objectives:  (1) to identify within government inefficient and overlapping programs that negatively impact entrepreneurs trying to start or expand a business, and to recommend solutions; and, (2) to serve as a visible advocate and mentor for entrepreneurs within the government, a point of contact who knows and understands their needs, concerns, and frustrations with regard to dealing with government.

The entrepreneur in residence would:

1. Assist in providing outreach to entrepreneurs and small businesses;

2. Provide recommendations on ways to streamline and improve government procedures impacting entrepreneurs;

3. Recommend ways to improve programs available to entrepreneurs;

4. Facilitate meetings and forums to educate entrepreneurs on programs and requirements;

5. Provide technical assistance or guidance to entreprenuers in navigating government programs and requirements;

6. Participate in informal working groups of entrepreneurs in residence from various agencies established to discuss best practices, experiences, obstacles, opportunities, and recommendations.