Authorizes the president of the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana to pay a per diem during a gubernatorial declared state of emergency to one member of the Select Committee on Homeland Security who is designated by the president to attend the state unified command group meetings.
Impact
If adopted, SR204 would formalize the process by which a member of the Senate can officially attend emergency meetings, ensuring that legislative input is available in critical discussions on state emergencies. This includes facilitating better communication and collaboration between the legislature and emergency management officials, an essential aspect of handling disasters effectively. The bill underscores the importance of legislative presence in emergency planning and response, potentially leading to improved legislative oversight of emergency management efforts.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 204 seeks to authorize the president of the Senate of Louisiana to pay a per diem to one designated member of the Select Committee on Homeland Security during a gubernatorial declared state of emergency. The initiative arises from the recognition that effective participation in the state unified command group meetings is vital during emergencies, ensuring that the flow of information is maintained between the state's emergency operations and the legislative body. This proactive measure is intended to enhance coordination during crises, which in turn supports the legislature's role in the emergency operations plan.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SR204 appears to be positive, with broad recognition of the importance of legislative involvement in emergency response efforts. Supporters likely view the bill as a necessary step for enhancing the state's operational efficiency during emergencies, thereby strengthening the state's preparedness and response capabilities. However, as with many legislative measures, there may be some concerns regarding budget implications, particularly the allocation of funds for the per diem amidst other competing priorities.
Contention
While SR204 primarily aims to authorize per diem payments for an emergency representative, potential points of contention could involve discussions around the specific selection process for the designated member, the duration and frequency of paid engagements, and the overall budgetary impact of such provisions. Opponents could argue that while the intention is sound, there could be better ways to organize legislative interactions without assigning additional financial burdens during emergencies.
Urges the Commissioner of Insurance to study the issue of insurers failing to timely pay property damage claims after a presidentially or gubernatorially declared disaster or emergency.
Urges the Commissioner of Insurance to develop outreach initiatives to assist seniors and special needs individuals after a presidentially or gubernatorially declared disaster or emergency.
Requests the chairmen of the Senate Select Committee on Homeland Security and the House Select Committee on Homeland Security to receive proposals on stopping the Deepwater Horizon oil leak and on the cleanup of such leak, and to forward such proposals to the appropriate state agency for analysis.
Commends Senator Gerald Long for his years of service to the citizens of the state of Louisiana while a member of the Louisiana Senate and the President Pro Tempore.
To commend the Honorable Cleo Fields for his exemplary service to the state of Louisiana during his many years at the Legislature of Louisiana and to congratulate him on his election to the House of Representatives of the United States Congress.
Requests the chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Homeland Security to receive proposals on stopping the Deepwater Horizon oil leak and on the cleanup of such leak, and to forward such proposals to the appropriate state agency for analysis.