Appropriates funds for payment of certain judgments against the DOTD
Impact
The enactment of HB 798 will ensure that the state meets its legal obligations regarding the consent judgments from the mentioned lawsuits. By appropriating funds for these judgments, the bill helps mitigate the financial impact on the parties awarded the judgments, thus upholding the integrity and responsibility of state governance in handling legal claims. Furthermore, it reinforces the state's commitment to honoring court rulings, which is critical for maintaining public trust in the legal and fiscal governance of Louisiana.
Summary
House Bill 798, authored by Representative Johnson, specifically focuses on appropriating funds from the state general fund of Louisiana for the fiscal year 2010-2011. The bill allocates a total of $11,250 to pay consent judgments awarded in favor of several plaintiffs stemming from the consolidated lawsuits against Kansas City Southern Railway Company, the Avoyelles Parish Police Jury, and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). These allocations are crucial for addressing the financial liabilities arising from these judicial decisions.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 798 appears to be largely neutral, as the bill addresses a specific legal obligation rather than introducing new policies or contentious changes to existing laws. There may be some support for the bill from those advocating for responsible governance that upholds court decisions. However, as it deals mainly with financial appropriations rather than legislative reform, it does not evoke significant controversy or debate among lawmakers or constituents.
Contention
One notable point of contention related to HB 798 might revolve around the sources of funding and the extent to which state budget allocations can be strained by such appropriations. While the bill does not face strong opposition, discussions may arise regarding the financial implications of such payouts and the prioritization of funds within the state budget. Stakeholders could express concerns over whether these appropriations divert resources from other essential services or initiatives within the state.
Appropriates funds for payment of judgment against the state in the matter of "Mark and Michelle Gagnard, et al v. Kansas City Southern Railway, et al"
Appropriates funds for payment of judgment against DOTD in the suit entitled "Douglas Phillips and Mari Beth Phillips v. Muslow Oil and Gas Company, et al"
Provides for the transfer of UNO from the LSU System to the UL System and specifies goals for the postsecondary education delivery system for the New Orleans region (REF INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Appropriates funds for payment of the judgment against the state in the suit entitled Louise Kaltenbaugh, Ph.D. et al. v. Board of Supervisors, Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College at Baton Rouge c/w Dayanand Thangada et al. v Board of Supervisors, Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College at Baton Rouge
Directs the development of a plan to support state employees who are terminated due to implementation of budget-reduction measures in preparation for reentry to the private sector workforce. (EG NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)