Senate Bill No. 247, also known as Public Act No. 26-109, introduces significant reforms to the regulations governing state agency payments to employees, 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 authorized by the Office of Labor Relations, settlement agreements approved by the Attorney General, or collective bargaining agreements. Additionally, it prohibits any agreements that restrict employees from making complaints or providing information under existing whistleblower laws. The bill also enhances the governance of foundations established by state agencies, requiring them to have a governing board with nonvoting members and adhere to specific operational guidelines, including the use of generally accepted accounting principles and independent audits.

Moreover, the bill amends existing laws regarding the oversight and reporting requirements for foundations associated with The University of Connecticut, mandating annual reports for foundations with endowment funds exceeding $1.5 million. It modifies the language surrounding written agreements between state agencies and foundations, affirming their existence and requiring reimbursement for expenses incurred due to foundation operations. The bill also designates the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection as the state agency responsible for coordinated emergency recovery, replacing previous language, and adjusts auditing responsibilities by allowing state auditors to retain independent auditors without the Comptroller's involvement. Additionally, it establishes a Technical Services Revolving Fund for information and telecommunication systems, overseen by the Commissioner of Administrative Services and the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management, with annual reviews by the Auditors of Public Accounts. Overall, these changes aim to enhance transparency and accountability in state agency operations and financial dealings.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 4-40b, 2-90d, 4-216, 1-123
GOS Joint Favorable: 4-40b, 2-90d, 4-216, 1-123
File No. 287: 4-40b, 2-90d, 4-216, 1-123
Public Act No. 26-109: 4-40b, 2-90d, 4-216, 1-123