Senate Bill No. 184, known as the "Transparent Responsible Use of State Tax-dollars Act" or "T.R.U.S.T. Act," aims to enhance the accountability and transparency of state funding to nongovernmental entities. The bill amends existing law to require these entities to provide detailed information when requesting appropriations, including their most recent financial audit, a sworn statement of public purpose, and evidence of performing critical governmental functions that state or local governments cannot fulfill. Additionally, it mandates that entities submit certificates of compliance before receiving any funds, ensuring they maintain a physical office in Louisiana, are registered as nonprofits, and comply with various reporting requirements.

The legislation also introduces strict penalties for noncompliance, including civil penalties and disqualification from future appropriations for five years if false information is submitted. It establishes a framework for auditing these entities and requires the state treasurer to create an online database that tracks appropriations and their outcomes. Furthermore, the bill prohibits public officials and their immediate family members from holding decision-making roles in entities receiving state funds, and it restricts the use of state funds for lobbying activities. Overall, the T.R.U.S.T. Act seeks to ensure that state tax dollars are used responsibly and transparently by nongovernmental entities.

Statutes affected:
SB184 Original: 39:1(B)(7), 39:1(B)(10)