Louisiana House Bill HB379

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Imposes a fee for the issuance and renewal of driver's licenses and dedicates the revenue to the Transportation Trust Fund

Impact

The introduction of this bill could have significant implications for state law by creating a designated funding stream for transportation projects. By specifically allocating funds from driver's license fees to the Transportation Trust Fund, the amendment aims to address ongoing concerns related to road quality and infrastructure investments. The consistent revenue flow is expected to enhance maintenance efforts and facilitate new construction projects statewide, potentially improving overall transportation safety and efficiency for Louisiana residents.

Summary

House Bill 379 is a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to impose a fee for the issuance and renewal of driver's licenses in Louisiana. Starting January 1, 2011, all applicants would be mandated to pay a two-dollar fee, with this amount subject to annual adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index. The revenue generated from this fee is to be solely allocated to the Transportation Trust Fund, which is dedicated to the construction and maintenance of roads and bridges within the state's highway system. This bill is part of a broader effort to secure stable funding for essential infrastructure projects in Louisiana.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 379 appears to be supportive among infrastructure advocates, who see it as a vital step towards improving the state's roads and bridges. The earmarking of funds directly for transportation is viewed positively by these groups, indicating that they believe it will lead to better-run projects with more reliable funding. However, there may be opposing views from individuals who are concerned about any new fees imposed on residents, viewing it as an additional financial burden during challenging economic times.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding the bill may center around the introduction of fees for driver's licenses, which some might see as an unnecessary tax, especially for low-income individuals or families. Critics may argue that the state should explore alternative funding sources for the Transportation Trust Fund rather than placing this burden on everyday citizens who require driver's licenses for basic mobility. Additionally, the annual adjustment of the fee based on the Consumer Price Index could provoke debate regarding the predictability and fairness of such a system.