Delaware legislature posts finances online

Calling it another step toward transparency and open government, the Delaware General Assembly makes financial records available through state Web site.

The Delaware General Assembly’s financial records are now available online.

General Assembly expenses are now listed as part of the Delaware Online Checkbook and can be searched by payment category and vendor.

“Making our financial data available online is an effective way to give Delaware taxpayers a clear and more complete view of how their money is being spent,” said House Speaker Rep. Robert Gilligan (D-Sherwood Park). “Members from both parties have approached me about this, and for several weeks, the House and Senate Democratic leaderships have been working with Governor Markell and his administration to make the records available.”

Gov. Markell launched the Web site earlier this year, but until now it only included records from executive branch agencies, colleges and public school districts.

The General Assembly is the first government entity outside the Executive Branch to have its financial transactions placed online.

Some lawmakers say it’s another step toward transparency and open government.

“When we passed the Freedom of Information Act earlier this year we committed ourselves to providing the public with more open access and transparency,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Sen. Anthony DeLuca (D-Varlano). “The public deserves to know how their tax dollars are being spent and I hope that they will take advantage of this new tool.”

The public can view the financial records at checkbook.delaware.gov.