The bill, known as the "Transparent Responsible Use of State Tax-dollars Act" or "T.R.U.S.T. Act," amends and reenacts various sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes to establish new requirements and standards for nongovernmental entities that receive state appropriations. Key provisions include the creation of a publicly accessible database that will contain detailed information about these entities, such as their services, funding amounts, contract details, and compliance status. The database is intended to enhance transparency and accountability in the use of state funds, with specific functionalities for searching and aggregating records by agency and service category.

Additionally, the bill introduces criminal penalties for knowingly submitting false information and outlines strict reporting and audit requirements for nongovernmental entities. It prohibits these entities from engaging in political activities or using appropriated funds for lobbying. The legislation also repeals certain existing provisions related to funding request forms, thereby streamlining the process and ensuring that all entities comply with the new standards set forth in the T.R.U.S.T. Act. Overall, the bill aims to protect taxpayer interests and promote responsible management of state resources.

Statutes affected:
SB245 Original: 39:1(B)(11), 39:1(B)(10)
SB245 Engrossed: 39:1(B)(11), 39:1(B)(10)
SB245 Reengrossed: 39:1(B)(11), 39:1(B)(10)
SB245 Enrolled: 39:1(B)(11), 39:1(B)(10)
SB245 Act : 39:1(B)(11), 39:1(B)(10)