A. There is hereby established the "State Government Conferences Web-based Transparency pilot program".

B. The Superintendent of Public Instruction of the State Department of Education is directed to publish on a website a listing of all expenses paid by the Department of Education for the payment of food, lodging, and other authorized expenses as may be necessary to host, conduct, sponsor, or participate in conferences, meetings, or training sessions.

C. The Superintendent of Public Instruction is authorized to directly enter into contracts and agreements for the payment of food, lodging, and other authorized expenses as may be necessary to host, conduct, sponsor, or participate in conferences, meetings, or training sessions. The Superintendent may establish accounts as necessary for the collection and distribution of funds, including funds of sponsors and registration fees, related to such conferences, meetings, and training sessions. Any expenses incurred may be paid directly to the contracting agency or business establishment.

D. The cost of food for persons attending any conferences, meetings, and training sessions that do not require overnight travel shall not exceed the total daily rate as provided in the State Travel Reimbursement Act.

E. The Superintendent of Public Instruction shall allow for reimbursements and deposits occurring under the provisions of this act to take place through commonly accepted e-commerce practices.

F. On a regular basis the Superintendent of Public Instruction shall publish a report stating savings realized as a result of the State Government Conferences Web-based Transparency pilot program.

Added by Laws 2011, c. 347, § 7.