Rules Committee advances Nick Maduro’s nomination for Government Operations; members press on middle‑mile broadband and tech projects

The Senate Rules Committee voted 5‑0 June 11 to forward Nick Maduro’s nomination to serve as secretary of Government Operations to the full Senate, after a hearing that focused on the state’s middle‑mile broadband rollout, large technology projects and the implementation of a return‑to‑work order for state employees.

Nick Maduro, the governor’s nominee for secretary of Government Operations and the former director of the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, told the committee his priorities include improving state HR systems, procurement practices and delivery of large technology investments. “Government technology projects have historically been, very challenging,” he said, adding that “they frequently take too long and cost too much.”

On broadband: Several senators pressed Maduro on the middle‑mile broadband initiative and permitting hurdles. Maduro said federal funds for build‑out “are safe” and that the administration expects enough funding to complete the network, but acknowledged that related federal digital equity grants were recently canceled, which he estimated at roughly $110 million–$120 million. He described permitting complications tied to Caltrans right‑of‑way and federal NEPA review as the most persistent obstacles and said his office was working with Caltrans, the California Department of Technology and CalSTA to resolve them.

Maduro also confirmed the middle‑mile route was trimmed in scope because of costs, from about 10,000 miles to 8,000 miles, and said the Public Utilities Commission is handling “last mile” connections into communities. Several senators said the shifting plans and changing delivery timelines had undermined local trust and asked for regular briefings to the Legislature.

On large IT efforts: Maduro said the state payroll modernization effort is under way and that Government Operations will work with the Controller and CalHR to try to bring the project to successful completion. He cited the need to “clear away all of that underbrush and get back to sort of, what’s essential” in procurement and systems modernization.

Return to office: Senator Jones and others asked Maduro about implementing the governor’s return‑to‑work order for state employees. Maduro said he appreciates employee concerns about commuting and work arrangements but defended the executive order’s emphasis on in‑person collaboration and mentorship, while noting hybrid models will remain part of the discussion.

The committee’s roll call followed motions by the vice chair and other senators; Senators McGuire, Grove, Caballero, Jones and Laird each voted “aye” to send the nomination to the floor. There were no public speakers recorded in opposition during the hearing.

Why it matters: The Government Operations secretary oversees large cross‑agency projects — including HR and payroll systems, procurement, and broadband contracts — and Maduro’s answers reflect how the administration proposes to manage several high‑profile, technically complex programs that have raised legislative concerns about timelines and permitting.

What the committee asked for: Senators requested clearer, periodic briefings on the middle‑mile schedule, federal funding status and permitting obstacles, and several asked that GovOps help convene interagency tables to unblock permits and accelerate work where possible. Maduro committed to follow up with the Legislature and to keep direct lines open.

Next steps: The nomination will be scheduled for a Senate floor vote following the committee’s unanimous recommendation.