Louisiana Senate Bill SCR86

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/19/10
• Passed: 5/19/10
• Engrossed: 5/19/10

Caption

Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, the division of administration and the Department of Education to study the feasibility of direct state appropriation to retirement systems the constitutionally-required annual payments owed on behalf of teachers and other public school employees.

Impact

If enacted, SCR86 could significantly alter the financial operation within Louisiana's educational funding structure. It aims to enhance efficiency by potentially reducing complexities linked to the allocation of retirement contributions through local school boards. By bypassing the MFP for this specific purpose, the intent is to ensure that contributions are paid more directly, which could provide a more reliable funding mechanism for pensions owed to educators and school employees.

Summary

SCR86 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that urges the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, alongside the Division of Administration and the Department of Education, to study the feasibility of appropriating funds directly to state retirement systems. Currently, the funding for employer contributions for teachers and public school employees' retirement is distributed through the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP), which allocates these funds to local school boards. The bill seeks to streamline this process by appropriating the necessary funds directly to the retirement systems, thus simplifying financial management and ensuring timely contributions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SCR86 appears to be neutral to positive, focusing on financial efficiency and the potential benefits of direct appropriations. There may be varying perspectives depending on stakeholders' views on local control versus state management of education funds. While proponents argue that streamlining the funding process will benefit public school employees, critics may express concern over the implications for local governance in financial decision-making.

Contention

Notable points of contention could emerge regarding the shift in control over appropriations from local school boards to state authorities. Questions may be raised about the appropriateness of changing how educational funds are handled, as local school districts often have insights into the needs and circumstances surrounding their funding. Any opposition could hinge on concerns about losing localized input and oversight in retirement fund management for educators.