HB 2324

This bill makes a franchise tax refund that is paid open to public inspection as a public record. Upon written request to the department of revenue, a copy of a record, document, or other information, including the name of the taxpayer and total amount refunded, pertaining to a refund paid must be forwarded to the requesting party. This bill also requires the comptroller of the treasury to conduct or contract for at least one annual financial audit of all franchise tax refunds claimed and all such tax refunds issued to taxpayers for the prior fiscal year. The audit must include any other information the comptroller deems relevant in making such determinations. All audits conducted must be made available on the comptroller's website no later than December 31 of the subsequent fiscal year. This bill provides that an officer or employee of the state, or any other officer or employee , who act s in good faith in complying with this bill is not subject to criminal charges, penalties, or dismissal from employment for such good faith compliance.