Provides for a police superintendent and employment of police personnel by a certain flood protection authority. (8/1/12)
The bill will amend R.S. 38:330.7, effectively granting the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East the ability to directly oversee security operations within levee districts. The superintendent of police security will have full police powers, including the authority to make arrests throughout the authority's territory. This change is expected to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of flood zone security measures, responding promptly to any incidents that may threaten public safety or the integrity of levies.
Senate Bill 433, introduced by Senator Gary Smith, aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East by allowing it to employ its own superintendent of police security. This marks a significant shift from existing laws which previously prohibited the authority from directly employing police security personnel. Instead, the authority had to rely on cooperative agreements with local law enforcement agencies. By enabling the responsibility of police oversight to rest within the authority, the bill promotes a more streamlined approach to managing security for levee districts under its jurisdiction.
General sentiment surrounding SB 433 appears to be supportive among those who advocate for more localized control over flood protection and security services. Proponents argue that having a dedicated police superintendent could lead to better integration of law enforcement with flood protection efforts. However, there may also be concerns regarding the potential increase in bureaucratic complexity and the financial implications of maintaining a dedicated police force across multiple levee districts.
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the funding for the superintendent's salary and expenses, as the bill stipulates that each levee district will be assessed an equitable share of these costs. This could lead to disputes over financial responsibility, particularly if some districts feel burdened by the salary costs associated with the new position. Additionally, questions about local collaboration with existing law enforcement agencies may emerge, as the bill shifts the dynamics of how security services are coordinated within the context of flood protection.