(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to ad valorem taxes for fire and police protection in Orleans Parish (RR +$6,545,000 LF RV See Note)
Impact
If enacted, HB 290 would fundamentally alter the financial landscape for fire and police departments in Orleans Parish. Currently, local authorities can impose a maximum of five mills for these services; increasing this cap enables additional funding avenues, potentially leading to better service delivery and greater safety for residents. The mandated approval by voters for any tax increase is designed to maintain public oversight and accountability, ensuring that the local governance aligns with community priorities and needs.
Summary
House Bill 290, introduced by Representative Leger, proposes a constitutional amendment to allow the governing authority of Orleans Parish to levy additional ad valorem taxes specifically for fire and police protection. The bill seeks to increase the maximum millage rate for these services from five mills to six mills, contingent on approval by the parish's voters. This initiative aims to enhance the funding for essential safety services within the community, ensuring that the revenue generated is specifically allocated to support fire and police service improvements that directly enhance community safety.
Sentiment
The discussions surrounding HB 290 reflect a generally supportive sentiment among proponents, who argue that enhanced funding for public safety is crucial given the challenges faced by these departments. Many advocates believe that more financial resources will lead to improved emergency response times and better overall public safety. However, there are some concerns regarding tax increases and the potential burden on residents, particularly in the context of ongoing discussions about local government funding and service levels.
Contention
While the sentiment appears largely positive toward increasing funding for fire and police protection, the debate encapsulates broader concerns about taxation and fiscal responsibility. Opponents may voice apprehensions about rising property taxes, especially in a region that has faced various economic challenges. Furthermore, ensuring that additional funds do not simply displace existing city appropriations for safety services remains a critical point of contention, as residents want to ensure that their tax dollars are being used effectively to genuinely enhance protective services.
Constitutional amendment to authorize ad valorem tax exemptions in Orleans Parish to promote affordable housing. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (EN DECREASE LF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Authorizes the governing authority for the city of New Orleans or Orleans Parish to reduce a portion of ad valorem tax exemptions for municipal taxes (OR +$2,150,000 LF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Authorizes adjustment of ad valorem tax exempt status for certain nonprofit entities in Orleans Parish and requires downward adjustment of all affected millages to prevent any resulting increase in the amount of taxes collected (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV)
(Constitutional Amendment) Limits the amount of the increase in the assessed value of certain immovable property in Orleans Parish following reassessment of property for purposes of ad valorem taxes (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV)
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.