Strengthening Transparency and Accountability for Taxpayer Dollars

May 7, 2026

A bill strengthening transparency and accountability for legislatively directed funding, often called “earmarks,” is heading to the governor’s desk for his signature.

Both the House and Senate unanimously passed House Bill 5039, establishing new oversight standards for funds requested annually by lawmakers to support nonprofits and other organizations in Connecticut. 


Under the legislation, organizations receiving these funds must provide documentation explaining how the money will be used. The bill also requires organizations to obtain state approval before passing any of those funds on to another entity.

Greater transparency is critical, but it’s just as important that we establish a thorough and effective system for managing earmarks. Taxpayers deserve to understand how their dollars are being spent, and I view this legislation as a meaningful first step in that direction.

Governor Ned Lamont, who introduced House Bill 5039, is expected to sign it into law.
Read CT Mirror article here on earmark reform bill