Louisiana House Bill HB667

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the convening of the regular legislative session in the first year of the regular term of office

Impact

If passed, HB 667 would impact how legislative sessions are scheduled and could affect the overall legislative agenda for that particular year. The change in date could potentially allow legislators more time to prepare for the session after the election period, which might lead to more organized and efficient sessions. Moreover, scheduling flexibility could enhance public awareness and participation during the legislative process, as citizens would have a clearer timeline for when the legislature convenes.

Summary

House Bill 667 proposes a constitutional amendment to modify the convening date of the Louisiana legislature in the first year of a regular term of office. Specifically, the bill seeks to change the start date of the annual regular session from the second Monday in March to the fourth Monday in March for the first even-numbered year of a regular term. This amendment aims to streamline the legislative process and align it with the needs of the government and voters.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 667 appears to be generally supportive, as it promotes perceived efficiency in legislative operations. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implications of changing established dates, especially from members who value long-standing traditions within the legislative process. Supporters argue that such a change will positively affect the legislative workflow, while critics may worry about the potential disruption of timelines and expectations.

Contention

A notable point of contention may arise from stakeholders who are accustomed to the previous schedule and who believe the changes could affect various aspects of legislative advocacy and participation. Moreover, there could be debates regarding whether this adjustment was necessary, as well as discussions about its potential long-term ramifications on future legislative schedules. The overall response from constituents and governmental bodies will likely play a significant role in the bill’s progression through the legislative process.