Louisiana House Bill HB391

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Refer: 5/12/10
• Refer: 5/13/10
• Engrossed: 5/27/10
• Refer: 6/1/10

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for prefiling and notice deadlines for bills affecting public retirement systems

Impact

The proposed changes would alter existing constitutional provisions pertaining to the introduction of bills affecting retirement systems, particularly by repealing the current requirement for public notice 30 days prior to introduction. This could streamline the legislative process but may also reduce the amount of time the public has to become informed and respond to proposed changes in retirement legislation, which is a significant issue for many stakeholders, including current public employees and retirees.

Summary

House Bill 391 seeks to amend the Louisiana Constitution by introducing new prefiling and public notice requirements specifically for bills relating to public retirement systems. Currently, legislation must be prefiled no later than ten calendar days before the regular session; HB391 proposes extending this period to forty-five calendar days prior for retirement-related legislation. The bill aims to enhance legislative transparency and allow for more comprehensive public engagement prior to the introduction of such bills.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB391 appears mixed, with advocates arguing that the changes would facilitate a more efficient legislative process while providing adequate time for legislators to prepare and review important changes to retirement policies. Conversely, there are concerns that shortening public notice periods could limit the public's opportunity for involvement and oversight, thereby affecting the trust in the legislative process. Discussions likely reflect a broader tension between the need for legislative efficacy and the imperative of public accountability.

Contention

Notably, a significant point of contention in the discussions is the removal of the public notice requirement, which some believe undermines transparency and public interest. Critics may argue that such changes could lead to hastily passed legislation without sufficient public scrutiny, especially given the high stakes associated with retirement systems. Ultimately, if passed, HB391 would not just change procedural norms but could also influence the balance of power between legislators and constituents regarding critical issues impacting public employees.