Provides relative to assessments levied by the Louisiana Rice Promotion Board
Impact
The impact of HB 1045 is significant on state statutes related to rice production and promotion. The repeal of certain provisions regarding the levy of additional assessments and authority for referenda is a major change. These modifications streamline the process for funding the board's activities, removing the requirement for confirmation votes from rice producers for certain assessments. This could lead to more consistent and stable funding for promotional efforts, which are essential for maintaining and enhancing the rice industry's viability within Louisiana. The bill also makes provisions for refunds to producers who have assessments deducted from their sales, which adds a layer of financial protection for them.
Summary
House Bill 1045 aims to amend and reenact several sections of the law regarding the Louisiana Rice Promotion Board and its operations. The bill proposes changes to the membership structure of the board, which will now consist of eleven members appointed by the governor, rather than the previous nine. It also outlines the duties and responsibilities of the board, emphasizing the importance of promoting rice production. Additionally, the bill addresses the levying of assessments on rice producers, allowing a charge up to three cents per hundredweight of dry rough rice and two point seventy one-hundredths cents for rice sold on a green weight basis.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment around HB 1045 has been generally positive among rice producers and agricultural stakeholders. They see the bill as a means to bolster the rice industry in Louisiana through increased funding for promotional activities. However, there may be concerns from some producers regarding the governance and transparency of the board, particularly in light of the changes to membership and funding mechanisms. The adjustments allow for a more streamlined process, but they also eliminate some checks and balances that had been in place.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the implications of removing the referenda requirement, which may reduce producers' direct influence over how funds are used. Critics argue that empowering the board without this mechanism could lead to less accountability. Additionally, some discussions have highlighted the risk of financial strain on smaller producers who may be disproportionately affected by the assessments. The balance between necessary funding for rice promotion and the potential financial burden on producers is a critical aspect of the ongoing dialogue regarding the bill.
Abolishes the Louisiana Rice Research Board and the Louisiana Rice Promotion Board and creates the Louisiana Rice Promotion and Research Board. (8/01/16)
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.