Louisiana Senate Bill SB630

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/26/12
• Refer: 3/27/12
• Report Pass: 4/2/12
• Engrossed: 4/10/12
• Refer: 4/11/12
• Report Pass: 4/30/12
• Enrolled: 5/15/12
• Chaptered: 5/25/12
• Passed: 5/25/12

Caption

Authorizes a fixed rate for emergency telephone service charges in St. Bernard Parish. (8/1/12)

Impact

The legislation is set to standardize how emergency telephone service charges are applied within St. Bernard Parish, which will benefit both residents and service providers by providing clarity on the fees they will encounter. The maximum charges specified are reasonable, namely a dollar per month for residential lines and slightly higher fees for commercial and cellular lines. This standardization may lead to reduced confusion and ensure that all service users are treated equitably under the new fee structure.

Summary

Senate Bill 630 establishes a framework for the St. Bernard Parish 911 Communications District to implement a fixed rate for emergency telephone service charges. The bill allows the district to levy these charges based on a uniform flat fee structure, distinguishing it from existing tariff rate systems. This initiative aims to simplify the billing process for emergency services by creating consistent charges across different service types including residential, commercial, and wireless services.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB630 appears to be positive, as it is designed to streamline emergency service charges. By ensuring that rates are uniformly applied, it addresses concerns of inequality in billing for services. No major opposition is noted in available documentation, reflected by the unanimous support in the voting process, with the bill passing decisively with a vote of 99-0 in the House.

Contention

While the bill has obtained substantial support, it should be noted that future implementation depends on voter approval for any proposed fixed fee changes. This creates a channel for potential public discourse around the new charges, which could lead to contention if constituents feel negatively impacted by the changes. The limit on service charges also poses questions for budget allocations for emergency services, which may be scrutinized by local governance as the bill is enacted.