Louisiana House Bill HB934

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12
• Report Pass: 4/23/12
• Engrossed: 5/3/12
• Refer: 5/7/12
• Refer: 5/21/12
• Report Pass: 5/28/12
• Enrolled: 6/4/12
• Vetoed: 6/4/12
• Vetoed: 6/15/12

Caption

Authorizes the parishes of Jefferson and Orleans to create an automobile rental tax district (REF +$3,600,000 LF RV See Note)

Impact

The enactment of HB 934 will enable the parishes of Jefferson and Orleans to address local funding needs through taxation specific to automobile rentals. This introduces a new funding mechanism for areas that necessitate investment in cultural and infrastructural projects, thereby allowing local governments more flexibility in managing their financial resources and better serving their communities. The distribution of funds collected through this tax will be distinctly allocated, enhancing community support for regional arts and essential infrastructure.

Summary

House Bill 934 establishes the authority for the parishes of Jefferson and Orleans in Louisiana to create an automobile rental tax district. This political subdivision would allow these parishes to levy a tax of up to three percent on the gross proceeds from the lease or rental of automobiles, provided this tax is approved by a majority of local voters. The generated revenue is earmarked for specific uses, including funding cultural initiatives and projects within the respective parishes, such as arts and recreation in Jefferson and road repairs in Orleans.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB 934 reflected a generally progressive sentiment, particularly among those who viewed it as a means of local revenue enhancement. Supporters appreciated the bill's potential to finance community-centered initiatives, which could lead to broader local engagement and enrichment. However, there may be contrasting opinions from rental companies and individuals who view additional taxes as burdensome, indicating a need for a balance between revenue generation and economic activity.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the administrative nature of determining tax applicability and the potential backlash from the automobile rental industry. Some stakeholders might argue that these taxes could deter consumer spending in local rental markets, thus impacting business operations. Furthermore, the requirement for a public vote to initiate the tax adds a layer of complexity and may lead to varied opinions among voters, affecting the bill's implementation and sustainability in the long term.