Louisiana Senate Bill SB423

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 4/28/10
• Engrossed: 5/4/10
• Refer: 5/5/10
• Report Pass: 6/8/10
• Enrolled: 6/18/10
• Chaptered: 6/30/10
• Passed: 6/30/10

Caption

Provides for reserve investigators in the Louisiana Inspector General's Office. (gov sig)

Impact

The enactment of SB423 is expected to expand the resource pool available to the Louisiana Inspector General's Office. By leveraging experienced individuals who have retired from full-time positions, the office can conduct investigations without incurring substantial additional costs related to hiring new personnel. Moreover, participants in the reserve investigator program will still be required to maintain their certifications and fulfill professional development requirements, reinforcing the quality of oversight.

Summary

Senate Bill 423 aims to establish a framework for appointing reserve investigators within the Louisiana Inspector General's Office. This legislation is designed to allow individuals who have previously served as full-time investigators or have been certified peace officers in Louisiana to take on the role of reserve investigators. Such appointments would ensure that these individuals retain law enforcement capabilities while also allowing the Inspector General to manage costs associated with investigations by utilizing volunteers rather than full-time staff.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB423 appears to be supportive among lawmakers who value expanding the investigative capacity of the Inspector General's Office without increasing the financial burden on the state. However, there may be underlying concerns about the adequacy of oversight and the well-being of volunteers working in potentially hazardous situations without compensation. As a result, while the bill may receive political backing, discussions about its implications for law enforcement standards are likely to persist.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the authority of the Inspector General in appointing and managing reserve investigators. Critics might raise concerns over potential misuse of power or lack of accountability among reserve personnel who operate in an official capacity despite receiving no direct compensation. Additionally, the time-limited appointments and discretion offered to the Inspector General for renewing or revoking these roles may lead to debates on the stability and integrity of such positions.