State senators approved a bill that would make non-governmental organizations requesting money to provide detailed information about their organization.

The reason for the bill is that some state leaders are worried that state money is going to pet projects, not to Louisiana’s needs.

WWL-TV

State Treasurer John Kennedy.

Howard Rogers is the head of the New Orleans Council on Aging.  This summer his organization is hoping to get more than $300,000 from the state; it’s money he is depending on to fund a few projects, including Meals on Wheels.

“It's critical to our survival,” said Rogers.  “But more importantly, it's critical to the survival of the seniors here in the city.”

The Council on Aging is one of nearly 240 non-governmental organizations set receive more than $60 million from Louisiana.

Other organizations, unlike Rogers’ group, are also getting the money, groups such as the Catfish Festival or the Winnsboro Gun Club.

“We have $60 million dollars of these earmarks,” State Treasurer John Kennedy said.  “The majority of which is pure foolishness.”

Treasurer Kennedy said that he is trying to get a handle on these earmarks, sponsoring a bill that calls for better insight and accountability of organizations receiving taxpayer dollars.

“The real issue is not are these good projects. Perhaps, some are,” said Treasurer Kennedy.  “The real issue is a question of priorities.  What's more important to the people of Louisiana now: the Catfish Festival or better levees?”

Kennedy, however, said it is not possible to craft a bill to kill all earmarks.  He does hope, though, that the money will go to worthy organizations.

“Most of these projects are not things Louisiana needs.  They are things some politicians want to help them with their politics,” said Treasurer Kennedy.

Gov. Bobby Jindal said that he plans to veto any earmark that is not a state priority.

“Even as the legislature is contemplating cuts in health care and education, it makes no sense to spend money on some of these other projects when we have no idea where the money is going,” said Gov. Jindal.

Howard Rogers said he understands the governor and the treasurer’s concerns.

“In some instances there might be some programs that don't provide a public service,” said Rogers, but added that his organization does a public service -- something Louisiana can’t do on its own -- and relies on public money.

Treasurer Kennedy’s bill has moved over to the La. House; it is not yet scheduled to be heard.