Louisiana Senate Bill SB706

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/19/10
• Refer: 4/19/10
• Report Pass: 5/10/10
• Engrossed: 5/18/10
• Refer: 5/19/10
• Report Pass: 6/14/10
• Enrolled: 6/20/10
• Chaptered: 7/6/10
• Passed: 7/6/10

Caption

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)

Impact

The anticipated impact of SB 706 is primarily on the budgeting process at the state level. By mandating the inclusion and annual review of the Five Year Estimated Revenue Loss Chart, the bill is expected to make it easier for legislators to assess the long-term financial consequences of tax exemptions on the state budget. Furthermore, it serves to potentially facilitate discussions on fiscal policy and the balance between incentivizing business growth and maintaining necessary state revenue. As such, it could lead to adjustments in how tax exemptions are structured based on their proven effects on state finances.

Summary

Senate Bill 706, introduced by Senator Jackson, amends existing Louisiana law to include the Five Year Estimated Revenue Loss Chart from the Tax Exemption Budget as an appendix to the General Appropriation Bill. This change aims to enhance transparency surrounding the state's financial decisions regarding tax exemptions. By requiring this chart to be more accessible, the bill seeks to foster greater accountability in how tax exemptions impact the state’s revenue over time. This initiative could help lawmakers and the public better understand the fiscal implications of tax policies, potentially guiding future legislative decisions.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 706 appears to be positive among proponents who view it as a step forward in promoting fiscal responsibility and transparency in state governance. Supporters believe that having easy access to comprehensive revenue data can lead to more informed decision-making by lawmakers. However, there is a concern among some stakeholders about how the bill could affect current tax exemption policies and the economic implications for businesses that rely on these incentives. Overall, while the sentiment is generally supportive, there are backgrounds of caution regarding its potential downstream effects.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB 706 is the broader implications it may have for tax policy in Louisiana. Critics argue that the enhanced scrutiny of tax exemptions could lead to stricter regulations that may disincentivize investment and growth within certain sectors of the economy. Opponents express concerns about the balance between transparency and the need for a competitive business environment. The debate centers on whether rigorous evaluations of tax exemptions will lead to beneficial reforms or potentially stifle economic development through overregulation.