General Assembly Raised Bill No. 7092 seeks to enhance accountability and transparency within Connecticut's state agencies and their associated foundations by implementing several key amendments to existing laws. One significant change is the prohibition of state agencies from making payments exceeding fifty thousand dollars to employees resigning or retiring to avoid litigation costs or under nondisparagement agreements, effective October 1, 2025. This restriction also applies to agreements that prevent employees from working while still receiving their salary and benefits, unless authorized by the Attorney General or the Governor. Additionally, the bill clarifies that no agreements can hinder employees from making complaints or providing information as protected under whistleblower laws. The governance structure of foundations is also modified, requiring them to have a governing board and adhere to generally accepted accounting principles, with audits mandated based on financial activity thresholds.
The bill further mandates that foundations with endowment funds over $1.5 million provide detailed annual reports to legislative leaders, including financial statements and disbursement information. It establishes a written agreement between state agencies and foundations regarding resource use and liability limitations, while also modifying cash compensation conditions based on endowment market value. The bill emphasizes the foundation's responsibility to raise a minimum percentage of funds for student support annually and clarifies record retention protocols if a foundation ceases to exist. Additionally, it requires state agencies to adopt a model policy for processing complaints by February 1, 2026, and streamlines auditing processes by removing certain provisions related to the Comptroller's involvement. Overall, Raised Bill No. 7092 aims to improve oversight and operational efficiency across state agencies in Connecticut.
Statutes affected: Raised Bill: 4-40b, 4-37f, 2-90, 2-90d, 4-216, 1-123