Louisiana House Bill HB540

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/25/11
• Report Pass: 5/2/11
• Engrossed: 5/11/11
• Refer: 5/12/11
• Report Pass: 6/6/11
• Enrolled: 6/15/11
• Chaptered: 6/24/11
• Passed: 6/24/11

Caption

Allows for the Small Engineering Consultant Program within DOTD to be open to certain businesses

Impact

The bill modifies existing state law concerning the Small Engineering Consultant Program by establishing stricter requirements for eligibility. This move indicates a shift towards greater accountability and quality assurance in state-funded engineering projects. By narrowing the pool of eligible firms to those with longer histories, the bill may foster a more reliable and capable contractor environment within the engineering sector while potentially excluding newer firms that lack the required experience.

Summary

House Bill 540 aims to amend the Small Engineering Consultant Program in Louisiana, refining the criteria for participation. It specifically allows only certain small engineering consultant firms to partake in the program, stipulating that these firms must have been in business for a continuous period of at least two years. The purpose of this change is to ensure that participants possess a certain level of stability and experience, thereby enhancing the overall quality of services rendered through state contracts.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 540 appears to be largely supportive among legislators who advocate for quality improvements in state contracts. By aiming to elevate standards within the engineering consultancy field, the bill is seen as a proactive measure. However, concerns have been raised about the implications for smaller or newer firms that might struggle to meet the new qualifications, which could lead to reduced diversity among eligible contractors.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 540 include the tension between ensuring high-quality service through established firms and the potential barrier it creates for emerging engineering consultants. Legislators opposing the bill may argue that it risks stifling innovation and competition within the engineering sector. Furthermore, some may highlight that the specific requirement of a two-year business presence may inadvertently disadvantage capable firms trying to enter the state contracting market.