Louisiana Senate Bill SB410

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12
• Report Pass: 3/28/12
• Engrossed: 4/2/12
• Refer: 4/3/12
• Refer: 5/8/12
• Refer: 5/9/12
• Enrolled: 5/30/12
• Chaptered: 6/15/12
• Passed: 6/15/12

Caption

Constitutional amendment to establish certain requirements prior to legislatively creating certain special districts. (2/3-CA13s1(A))

Impact

If enacted, SB410 will alter the current processes governing the creation of special districts in Louisiana. Specifically, it will require a higher level of public notification and engagement, as it stipulates that notice must be published on three separate days, with the last notice occurring at least 30 days before any legislative introduction. This change aims to improve public access to information about local governance and increase community involvement in matters that could significantly affect their security and taxes related to parcel fees.

Summary

Senate Bill 410 proposes an amendment to Article III, Section 13 of the Louisiana Constitution, establishing specific requirements prior to the legislative creation of certain special districts. The primary focus of these special districts includes enhancing security and crime prevention by increasing the presence of law enforcement personnel. The bill mandates that detailed public notices are to be published several times prior to the introduction of such legislation, ensuring transparency and public awareness regarding the proposed laws and any financial implications associated with parcel fees that might be imposed within the districts.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB410 appears generally positive among its supporters, who advocate for increased transparency and the provision of necessary public safety measures through better-funded special districts. However, there may also be concerns about the implications of such measures on local governance autonomy and the administrative burden that increased notification requirements could impose on legislative processes. This bill underscores a push for responsibility and community awareness in governance while trying to balance public safety with administrative efficiency.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB410 might center on the potential fiscal impact that parcel fees could have on residents within the proposed special districts. Critics may argue that the requirement to provide detailed notices, while improving transparency, could also slow down the legislative process and limit swift responses to community needs for security. Furthermore, there may be disagreements regarding whether such stringent notification requirements are necessary or excessive, potentially stifling the ability of local governments to respond flexibly to crime prevention needs.