The issue of transparency continues to gain traction. I recommend two brief and informative articles, one from the Economist and the other from the Atlantic Monthly.

Gov. Jindal clearly appreciates the significance of increased transparency. LaTrac is in its early stages, but I believe it will continue to develop into a comprehensive and useful transparency site.

But we await evidence that other policy makers in this state appreciate the importance of transparency in government spending. For example, when will the Department of Treasury provide an online check register similar to that in Rhode Island? And when will municipalities like New Orleans recognize that posting detailed spending information online in a searchable, user-friendly format is an efficient way to demonstrate their commitment to honest and ethical government?

Enterprising politicians need to wake up and smell the coffee. Transparency is a sure way to gain public support and favorable press. The costs are modest and often offset by discoveries of wasteful spending. What are you waiting for?