Louisiana House Bill HB800

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

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

Caption

Provides for accounts within the Education Excellence Fund and the deposit of certain revenues (OR SD RV See Note)

Impact

The bill proposes a structure where the Education Excellence Fund will comprise multiple accounts, including the Casino Support Services Account and the Early Childhood Development Account. By allocating funds derived from gaming operations to these accounts, the legislation intends to provide sustained financial support for educational programs and services from preschool to post-secondary education. Such funding is crucial for Louisiana's public education system, especially in light of budget constraints faced by many educational institutions.

Summary

House Bill 800 (HB800) aims to amend and reenact certain statutes related to the Education Excellence Fund in Louisiana by establishing specific accounts within the fund. This bill directs gaming revenues, specifically from the operation of a casino in Orleans Parish, toward supporting education-related initiatives. This legislative measure seeks to enhance the financial resources available for early childhood development and education by defining how funds are appropriated and ensuring they are used for specific educational needs.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB800 reflect a generally supportive sentiment among proponents who view it as a progressive step towards utilizing state gaming revenues for beneficial educational purposes. However, there are concerns over the reliance on gambling revenue to fund essential services, which some critics argue could lead to volatility in education funding. This apprehension underscores a broader debate about the ethical implications of using gaming revenue for direct educational support.

Contention

One notable point of contention in the legislative discourse involves the potential for changes to the approved appropriations. The bill allows for modification of the purposes for which funds can be appropriated, which must pass with a two-thirds majority in both legislative houses. Critics express concerns that such amendments could undermine the stability and predictability of educational funding, creating uncertainty in long-term planning for educational institutions reliant on these state funds.