Provides for review and evaluation of fees appropriated in the General Appropriation Bill. (7/1/10) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Impact
The enactment of SB299 is expected to enhance the evaluation process of fees associated with state services and activities. It aims to provide a systematic approach for the assessment of government fees to align them more closely with the costs incurred in delivering those services. This legislative change may lead to adjustments in how fees are determined and potentially alter funding allocations, ensuring that they reflect the actual costs of services provided to the public and user groups.
Summary
Senate Bill 299 establishes a cost recovery budget request form aimed at improving the financial accountability of state government operations in Louisiana. This bill mandates that budget units, with the exception of higher education agencies, report on all fees they collect as part of their operations in the General Appropriations Bill. The required documentation includes details on revenue generated, expenditures associated with services, and historical data to ensure the relationship between revenues and expenditures is transparent and justifiable.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment around SB299 appears to be constructive, with supporters recognizing the potential for increased transparency and efficiency in government operations. However, some concerns have been raised about whether the financial resources allocated to services will remain adequate, especially if fee adjustments are mandated. Stakeholders and agencies may feel the pressure of satisfying both fiscal responsibility and the demand for services, leading to a complex dynamic in acceptance of the bill.
Contention
Key points of contention in the discussions surrounding SB299 include the feasibility and implications of systematically reviewing fees every five years. Critics argue that this could lead to administrative burdens and might not accurately reflect the fluctuating costs of services. There is a concern that while the bill aims for clarity and accountability in financial operations, it could inadvertently complicate processes for state agencies that are already working under tight budgets and performance expectations.
Provides for the Five Year Estimated Revenue Loss Chart from the Tax Exemption Budget to be an appendix to the General Appropriation Bill. (8/15/10) (EN NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)