Louisiana House Bill HB972

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

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

Caption

Provides relative to appointment of members of the Board of Supervisors of Community and Technical Colleges

Impact

The passage of HB 972 is expected to significantly impact how the board governs community and technical colleges in Louisiana. By requiring that appointments come from a nominating committee, the law emphasizes a more structured approach to board composition, which aligns member selection with the demographics of the state. It aims to ensure that the board possesses a diverse set of perspectives and experiences, particularly in vocational education, which is critical for the development of state workforce training programs. Overall, this is a move towards a more inclusive and accountable governance model for higher education in Louisiana.

Summary

House Bill 972, introduced by Representative Patricia Smith, revises the process by which members of the Board of Supervisors of Community and Technical Colleges in Louisiana are appointed. The bill mandates that the governor make appointments based on nominations submitted by a designated nominating committee. This committee will consist of representatives from various educational institutions and organizations, reflecting a broader range of stakeholders involved in higher education. The change aims to enhance the representation and qualifications of board members, with a focus on ensuring diversity within the state's population.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 972 appears generally positive among advocates for educational reform and institutional diversity. Supporters see this legislation as a step forward in making the governance of community colleges more representative of the local population. However, some critics may express concern over the potential for political influence in the appointment process, questioning whether this change leads to genuine representation or if it merely alters the mechanisms of control without enhancing participatory governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention related to the bill may arise regarding the balance of power in appointments between educational stakeholders and the governor's office. By removing direct nominations from respected organizations like the AFL-CIO and the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, proponents might worry about the implications for sector-specific expertise on the board. Additionally, certain factions may contend that the governor's influence in selecting educational leaders could lead to politicization of community college governance, potentially affecting educational policy and funding decisions.