Louisiana House Bill HB565

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12
• Report Pass: 4/18/12
• Engrossed: 4/30/12
• Refer: 5/1/12
• Report Pass: 5/14/12
• Enrolled: 5/17/12
• Chaptered: 5/25/12
• Passed: 5/25/12

Caption

Re-creates the Dept. of Natural Resources (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

Impact

The impact of HB 565 on state laws revolves around the operational continuity of the Department of Natural Resources. This re-creation is crucial for managing state resources effectively, as it ensures that the department and its entities maintain the necessary statutory authority to act. The provisions of the bill signify a commitment from the Louisiana legislature to uphold environmental stewardship through the state’s administrative mechanisms. By specifying the termination dates and conditions for re-creation, the bill aims to enhance government accountability and oversight on environmental matters.

Summary

House Bill 565 focuses on the re-creation of the Department of Natural Resources and its statutory entities as part of an effort to ensure these entities continue to operate under state law. The bill is structured to provide a clear effective date for the re-creation and termination of these entities, with an emphasis on the legislative framework that supports them. By enacting R.S. 49:191(6)(a), the bill establishes that the Department must be re-created effective June 30, 2012, while also stating that the authority for the department will cease after July 1, 2017, unless otherwise renewed by the legislature.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 565 appears to be generally positive within the legislative context. The bill was passed unanimously in the Senate, which indicates a collective agreement among lawmakers regarding the importance of maintaining the Department of Natural Resources. This consensus suggests that legislators recognize the value of a functioning department for the effective management of natural resources, a vital area of concern that impacts various sectors including agriculture, conservation, and public health.

Contention

While there do not appear to be significant points of contention documented regarding HB 565, it is implied that discussions around the re-creation of state departments can be contentious due to budgetary considerations and differing partisan views on the role of state government in resource management. However, the bill's unanimous approval suggests that it may have bridged these divides, at least in the context of this specific legislative session. The clear structure provided by the bill may alleviate concerns regarding the continuity of authority and effectiveness of the Department of Natural Resources.