General Assembly Raised Bill No. 247 seeks to enhance accountability and transparency in state financial practices by implementing recommendations from the Auditors of Public Accounts. Effective October 1, 2026, the bill prohibits state agencies from making payments exceeding fifty thousand dollars to employees resigning or retiring to avoid litigation costs or under nondisparagement agreements, with exceptions for administrative leave, settlement agreements authorized by the Attorney General, collective bargaining agreements, and other legal requirements. It also revises the governance structure of foundations established by state agencies, mandating a governing board and specifying the roles of nonvoting members, while ensuring that foundations are limited to providing scholarships and funding for public higher education programs.

Additionally, the bill introduces amendments to auditing and procurement processes within state agencies, including designating the deputy commissioner of the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security as the executive authority for specific sections, and streamlining the auditing process by allowing independent auditors to assist. It modifies requirements for personal service agreements exceeding fifty thousand dollars, necessitating approval from the secretary and notification to the Auditors of Public Accounts. The bill also repeals and substitutes various subsections to improve efficiency, including the removal of the Comptroller from the Treasurer's audit and eliminating the State Contracting Standard Board's authority to request audits. Overall, Raised Bill No. 247 aims to improve oversight and operational efficiency in state financial dealings, with specific insertions and deletions to current law to facilitate these changes.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 4-40b, 2-90d, 4-216, 1-123