Louisiana House Bill HCR149

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/21/13
• Engrossed: 5/22/13
• Passed: 5/28/13

Caption

Commends the Stop the Tolls organization for their efforts in educating the public on the need to eliminate the tolls on the Crescent City Connection Bridge

Impact

The bill highlights a critical moment in Louisiana's transportation funding debate, particularly addressing a local issue of tolls that were set to extend significantly until 2033. Due to the efforts of the Stop the Tolls organization, a new election was called following a court's decision declaring prior vote results void. The successful outcome of the election on May 4, 2013, saw 77% of voters in opposition to renewing the tolls, thereby mandating the decommissioning of the toll plaza and altering the state's financial obligations concerning bridge tolls.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 149 (HCR149) commends the Stop the Tolls organization for their dedicated efforts in advocating for the elimination of tolls on the Crescent City Connection Bridge. Established as a response to the tolls that have existed since 1989, this organization galvanized community support to challenge ongoing toll collection efforts and educate residents about the implications of tolls as an unfair tax. The grassroots campaign culminated in a significant public engagement that ultimately led to a change in the status of the tolls.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR149 and the associated campaign was largely supportive of grassroots activism and community engagement. Proponents expressed a sense of empowerment as the electorate successfully overturned a previous toll extension, viewing it as a victory for local governance and public opinion. However, there were likely tensions among those who supported continued tolls as a necessary means of funding transportation projects, representing a division in public sentiment regarding transportation financing methods.

Contention

While the resolution itself is straightforward in commending the Stop the Tolls organization, it reflects underlying contention between community advocacy and established governmental policies regarding toll collection. The legislative action also signals the significance of public referendum in determining local governance issues. The history of toll extensions and the grassroots resistance highlight ongoing debates around public expenditure, accountability, and the processes by which citizens can influence laws that directly impact their economic well-being.