Creates the Tax Structure and Governmental Program Review Commission to study the tax structure, including tax laws and related exemptions, exclusion, and credits, and governmental programs and operations in Louisiana.
Impact
The commission is specifically mandated to review and make recommendations regarding the proper mix of taxation and fiscal policies that can better align with the current economic and demographic changes in Louisiana. With ongoing fiscal distress brought about by falling revenues, such findings could lead to substantial reforms in the state's tax structure that could significantly alter state laws governing taxation and public budgeting.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 65 (SCR65) establishes the Tax Structure and Governmental Program Review Commission, which is tasked with studying Louisiana's tax structure, including tax laws, exemptions, exclusions, and credits. The formation of the commission is viewed as a crucial step forward in addressing the state’s fiscal challenges and facilitating long-term economic development. The commission is expected to analyze the effectiveness of existing tax policies and governmental programs in supporting state initiatives and serving the citizens of Louisiana.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR65 appears to be generally supportive, as it is viewed as a proactive approach to improving Louisiana's economic situation. Stakeholders believe that a thorough review of tax structures and government programs could lead to enhanced economic growth and responsiveness to changing population needs. However, there are concerns regarding the potential implications of the commission's recommendations and how they might impact specific constituencies within the state.
Contention
Notable points of contention include concerns regarding which interests are represented on the commission and if their recommendations will adequately consider the needs of underrepresented communities. Members range from legislative leaders to representatives from various economic and advocacy organizations, but there is an ongoing debate about ensuring that the commission's final recommendations reflect a comprehensive viewpoint on the state's tax and governmental operations. As the commission prepares to meet and discuss these issues, the effectiveness of their recommendations will be a critical aspect of scrutiny.
Authorizes the House Ways and Means Committee to study the state's tax structure, including state tax exemptions and credits, and to make recommendations concerning eliminating the state tax levied on individual and corporate income and reforming state tax exemptions and credits
Creates the Task Force on Structural Changes in Budget and Tax Policy to continue the budget and tax reform evaluations begun in the 2016 First Extraordinary Session and urges and requests the governor to support and implement initiatives for structural change introduced in upcoming sessions that will lead to savings through more efficient and effective state operations
Provides the information to be submitted to the legislative fiscal information for the review of instruments relative to tax exemptions, exclusions, deductions, and credits. (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Requests the Senate Committee on Senate and Governmental Affairs to study the salary structure and total compensation of all state and local elected officials and university administrators.
Requests the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs to study the salary structure of all state and local elected officials and university administrators
Requests the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs to examine the structure, functions, duties, and authority of the division of administrative law
Requests the secretaries of the Department of Health and Hospitals and the Department of Children and Family Services to study the consolidation of the two departments into one department and to present a plan for such consolidation and related information to the legislature
Requests the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs Committee to study and make recommendations relative to the oganization of the executive branch of state government
Provides for the creation of special service districts by parishes and municipalities, and for the raising of revenues by such special service districts. (gov sig) (REF NO IMPACT LF See Note)