Louisiana House Bill HB380

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/25/11

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides with respect to the Public Service Commission (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

Impact

If passed, this bill would significantly amend Article IV and Article XIV of the Louisiana Constitution, directly affecting the composition and electoral process of the PSC. The change is expected to provide better governance and oversight in public utility regulation, given the complex landscape of public services. By increasing the number of commissioners, the bill aims to foster more diverse opinions and experiences in decision-making processes, thus promoting a more comprehensive understanding of service issues across different regions of the state.

Summary

House Bill 380 proposes a constitutional amendment to increase the number of members on the Public Service Commission (PSC) from five to seven. The bill outlines the necessity for the state legislature to divide Louisiana into seven single-member districts prior to the next congressional election, ensuring that these additional members are elected in a timely manner. The objective of this amendment is to enhance representation within the PSC and to address the needs of constituents more effectively, considering the widening scope of responsibilities undertaken by the commission.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 380 appears supportive among various stakeholders who believe that the increase in membership could lead to improved regulatory practices and responsiveness to public needs. However, there may be concerns regarding the feasibility of the proposal, particularly in how the added members would align with budgetary constraints and existing administrative structures. Discussions hint at a general endorsement among legislative members who recognize the potential benefits of increased representation but also acknowledge the logistics that accompany such changes.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the logistics involved in re-districting the state for the newly proposed single-member districts and the implications that an expansion of the commission may have on governance. Some lawmakers and residents may question whether simply increasing the number of commissioners will enhance the effectiveness of the PSC or if it may lead to complications in decision-making processes. Additionally, the timing of the elections and ensuring an orderly transition to this new structure raises concerns about potential disruptions in service and regulatory continuity.