Connecticut House Bill HB06813

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/15
• Refer: 2/18/15

Caption

An Act Requiring Transparency Of Expenditures By The Higher Education Foundations.

Impact

The implications of HB06813 are substantial as it shifts the status of higher education foundations, requiring them to disclose financial information that was previously kept confidential. By amending existing statutes and introducing new provisions that classify foundations as public agencies, the legislation directly influences how these organizations operate financially. This means that the financial activities related to donations, expenditures, and operations must be openly available for public examination, fostering greater trust in how funds are managed.

Summary

House Bill 06813 aims to enhance the transparency of expenditures by foundations established for public institutions of higher education in the state of Connecticut. The bill asserts that these foundations should be recognized as public agencies under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), thereby obligating them to comply with transparency and accountability standards typical for government entities. This change is intended to increase public oversight regarding the use of funds and resources by these foundations, which can significantly impact the operations and governance of educational institutions.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face opposition from those concerned about the potential chilling effects on donations due to increased scrutiny. Critics might argue that the transparency requirements could discourage private contributions, as potential donors may be hesitant to have their identities linked to public disclosures. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the definition of what constitutes a public agency and the corresponding obligations that come with that designation. Proponents of the bill, however, argue that transparency is essential for accountability in utilizing public resources, and that donor anonymity can be preserved within reasonable limits.