Louisiana Senate Bill SB733

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/12
• Refer: 4/3/12
• Report Pass: 4/23/12
• Engrossed: 4/30/12
• Refer: 5/1/12
• Report Pass: 5/16/12
• Enrolled: 6/1/12
• Chaptered: 6/14/12
• Passed: 6/14/12

Caption

Provides for the membership and powers and duties of the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board. (8/1/12)

Impact

The bill significantly impacts the governance of seafood promotion in Louisiana by modifying the composition of the board, which will now include specific representatives from various segments of the seafood industry. The board will consist of thirteen appointed members who are directly engaged in relevant commercial activities, which should provide more targeted and effective marketing efforts for Louisiana seafood products. Additionally, the term limits and structure for leadership within the board aim to foster stability and continuity in governance, allowing for strategic long-term planning.

Summary

Senate Bill 733 establishes the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, aimed at promoting and regulating the seafood industry within the state. This piece of legislation redefines the structure of the board, specifying new membership guidelines and election processes for officers. It outlines the criteria by which members shall be appointed, emphasizing the inclusion of various representatives from the commercial seafood, crawfish, and alligator industries, among others. Through this legislative measure, the interests of specific sectors within Louisiana's seafood industry are given a stronger voice and representation at the state level.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 733 appears to be largely positive, as stakeholders within the seafood industry likely view the new structure as an opportunity for greater advocacy and promotion of their interests. The bill has received unanimous support in the Senate, signaling agreement on the need for a more organized approach to seafood marketing in the state. However, some may raise concerns over the representation balance among various sectors, particularly regarding which industries have the most influence on board decisions.

Contention

While SB 733 was passed without opposition, points of contention could arise regarding the representation ratio among different seafood sectors and the potential for certain interests to dominate decision-making processes. Additionally, the stipulations relating to term limits for officers and member appointments, while generally aimed at ensuring fair governance, may also lead to discussions on accessibility and equity among smaller or less powerful stakeholders in Louisiana's seafood economy. The focus on specific groups might create a perception of favoritism unless carefully managed.