Louisiana Senate Bill SCR114

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/28/13
• Refer: 5/28/13
• Report Pass: 5/29/13
• Passed: 5/30/13
• Engrossed: 6/2/13

Caption

Requests the Senate Committee on Senate and Governmental Affairs and the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs to study the issues relative to the merger of one or more state departments.

Impact

If followed through, the study mandated by SCR114 will have significant implications for state laws regarding the organization of executive branch departments. The resolution reflects an effort to find efficiencies that might result in streamlining state programs and services. The outcome may lead to legislative changes that alter the operational landscape of state departments, with the possibility of reducing redundancy and improving resource allocation. Additionally, the collaboration between legislative committees suggests a structured approach to gathering insights from various stakeholders.

Summary

SCR114 is a concurrent resolution introduced by Senator Amedee with the purpose of urging and requesting the Senate Committee on Senate and Governmental Affairs and the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs to jointly study the issues surrounding the merger of one or more state departments in Louisiana. This necessity arises from ongoing budget deficits faced by the state, with higher education and health care being notably impacted by mid-year budget cuts. The resolution aims to promote efficiency in government operations, indicating a move towards potential restructuring to better manage state resources.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around SCR114 appears to be one of cautious optimism. Legislative discussions suggest a recognition of the pressing need for budgetary efficiencies while balancing the complexities involved in merging government departments. There may be support for the resolution's goals from factions concerned with fiscal responsibility, while caution persists regarding the potential impacts on services, especially in critical areas like education and health care. This interplay of perspectives makes for a nuanced conversation about the future of state governance.

Contention

Notably, while SCR114 aims to study potential mergers for efficiency, it could bring about contention among departments concerned about their autonomy and funding. Stakeholders, including department heads and the governor, will be solicited for input, which could trigger debates on the merits and drawbacks of merging services under a single organizational structure. The outcome of this study will likely lead to further legislative discussions and decisions that could reshape the operations of the executive branch in states that are already grappling with fiscal challenges.