Louisiana House Bill HB879

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 4/20/10

Caption

Authorizes the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to biennially adjust fees in accordance with the Consumer Price Index (EG SEE FISC NOTE SD RV See Note)

Impact

The enactment of HB 879 facilitates a structured system for fee adjustments by the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission, aiming to align them more closely with economic conditions as represented by the CPI. This change is expected to streamline the management of wildlife-related activities by providing a predictable financial framework for both the commission and stakeholders such as hunters and fishers. By ensuring that fees can be adjusted to reflect economic changes, the bill aims to maintain the financial viability of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries while ensuring that revenue remains aligned with inflationary trends.

Summary

House Bill 879 authorizes the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to biennially adjust fees assessed by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries in accordance with changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This legislation stipulates that fee adjustments can only be made in odd-numbered years and cannot exceed the percentage increase of the CPI rounded downward to the nearest dime. Additionally, no fee may be adjusted by more than 50% of its original amount set by the legislature. The bill also mandates the establishment of a fee schedule, which must be implemented every odd year and must specify the fees charged whether or not they have been adjusted under this law.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 879 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among legislators and stakeholders who recognize the need for fees to keep pace with inflation. Supporters emphasize that adjusting fees based on the CPI can help sustain programs that are vital for managing and conserving wildlife resources effectively. However, there may be concerns among certain user groups about potential fee increases without comprehensive oversight or public input into how such adjustments are determined.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding HB 879 involves the balance between necessary fee adjustments to fund wildlife programs and the potential financial burden these fees could impose on users. Some stakeholders may fear that continuous adjustments based solely on CPI could lead to excessive cost increases, creating barriers to access for certain groups. Additionally, there could be debates over the transparency of the fee adjustment process and whether stakeholders should have a role in discussing or approving those adjustments before they are finalized.