Louisiana House Bill HB799

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Refer: 4/29/10
• Refer: 5/3/10

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Requires the concurrence of a majority of the membership of each house of the legislature for the governor to call the legislature into extraordinary session

Impact

The impact of HB799, if enacted, would be significant on how legislative sessions are convened in Louisiana. It aims to ensure that lawmakers have a voice in the decision to convene, thereby reinforcing the principle of checks and balances within state governance. By mandating that a majority must agree, it could prevent instances where the governor convenes the legislature for controversial or less urgent matters, promoting more structured state governance. This amendment also aligns with the broader context of increasing legislative control over state affairs.

Summary

House Bill 799 proposes a constitutional amendment to change the process by which the governor can convene extraordinary sessions of the legislature. Under the current constitution, the governor has the authority to call the legislature into session at their discretion. However, HB799 seeks to require the concurrence of a majority of the elected members of each house before such a call can be made. This change is intended to enhance legislative oversight and limit unilateral decisions by the governor regarding the timing and purposes of extraordinary sessions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB799 is mixed. Proponents argue that requiring majority concurrence protects legislative authority and ensures that the governor cannot arbitrarily summon the legislature for extraordinary sessions. They believe it promotes collaborative decision-making and enhances accountability. Conversely, critics may view this amendment as a potential barrier to swift governance, particularly in times of crisis when immediate legislative action may be necessary. This division signifies ongoing concerns regarding the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches in Louisiana.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB799 include concerns from some legislators who fear that requiring a majority for calling sessions may delay important legislative business, particularly in unforeseen situations that demand quick action. Additionally, some may argue that this could lead to political maneuvering, with majority factions using the rule to block the governor's initiatives. Thus, while the motive of increasing legislative oversight is clear, the practical effects of implementing such a requirement could lead to complicated dynamics during critical legislative periods.