Louisiana House Bill HB455

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14
• Report Pass: 3/17/14
• Engrossed: 3/26/14
• Refer: 3/31/14
• Report Pass: 5/12/14
• Enrolled: 5/19/14
• Chaptered: 5/28/14
• Passed: 5/28/14

Caption

Provides relative to the Wedgewood Civic Association District in East Baton Rouge Parish (EN NO IMPACT LF EX See Note)

Impact

The bill notably modifies the previous legislative framework concerning the Wedgewood Civic Association District. It plays a crucial role in empowering local governance by allowing the district to impose a budget that must be approved by the East Baton Rouge Metropolitan Council. This change can lead to a more participatory governance structure where residents can engage with their local leaders regarding budget allocations and community improvements, enhancing local accountability.

Summary

House Bill 455 establishes the Wedgewood Civic Association Crime Prevention and Improvement District in East Baton Rouge Parish. The district is created with the purpose of enhancing security and promoting crime prevention within the area by increasing the presence of law enforcement and improving common areas. This legislative action aims to provide residents with better security measures and improvement of the public spaces, thus contributing to the overall betterment of the district.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 455 appears to be positive, with strong support for measures aimed at enhancing public safety. Local legislators expressed a belief in the need for increased law enforcement presence to combat crime effectively and improve community well-being. However, there may be discussions around the sufficiency of these measures and whether they adequately address crime beyond just increasing police presence.

Contention

While there was significant support for the bill, potential points of contention could emerge regarding budget approvals and the accountability of the district’s actions. Critics might argue that simply increasing law enforcement without addressing underlying social issues can be ineffective. The balance between crime prevention initiatives and community engagement is a critical focus in discussions about the effectiveness and fairness of the methods proposed by the bill.