House Bill 5047 (sHB5047 File No. 595) introduces several changes to Connecticut's state laws, with a focus on government operations, ethics, and higher education oversight. The bill requires the Connecticut Port Authority to submit quarterly reports on its activities, extends the deadline for recommendations on a new solid waste agency, increases the maximum grant for the Small Town Economic Assistance Program, and revises the authority for designating employees to serve on various bodies. It also modifies vacation and personal leave provisions for state employees, updates the Roberta B. Willis Scholarship program's fund allocation, and changes the state's retirement fund contribution methodology to a fifteen-year layered approach. The bill clarifies the definition of "gift" in the state ethics code, particularly for members of the Investment Advisory Council, and mandates a review of the state contracting process.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Higher Education Financial Oversight Committee to evaluate the financial status of state higher education institutions and the University of Connecticut Health Center. The committee is tasked with assessing financial needs, making recommendations, and conducting public hearings. Members are appointed by legislative leaders and the Governor, serve without compensation, and may retain staff. The committee must submit an annual report with findings and recommendations to improve financial management. The bill also includes fiscal impact statements, indicating potential costs and savings for various state departments and municipalities. The effective dates for the provisions vary, and the Appropriations Committee has given a Joint Favorable Substitute to the bill.

Statutes affected:
Governor's Bill: 15-31a, 15-31c, 15-31e, 15-31f, 15-31g, 15-15a, 15-15e, 5-250, 10-287c, 4-8
APP Joint Favorable Substitute: 4-9d, 5-250
File No. 595: 4-9d, 5-250