DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of
the legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of
the law or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
Greene HB No. 492
Abstract: Provides that any legislatively established public school system is to be included in
the MFP and has the constitutionally granted authority to levy ad valorem taxes.
Present constitution provides for the inclusion of school systems in the minimum foundation
program (MFP) formula for the funding of public elementary and secondary education and for
the allocation of MFP funds to such systems. Requires school systems to levy ad valorem taxes
and establishes the maximum millage rate for such taxes. Specifically provides that the
following community and municipal school systems – and no others – are treated like other
school systems for purposes of the MFP and local taxing authority: the Central community
school system, the Zachary community school system, and school systems in Baker, Monroe, and
Bogalusa.
Proposed constitutional amendment retains present constitution but removes the prohibition
against any school systems other than those specifically named in present constitution from being
treated like other school systems. Instead grants any public school system established by the
legislature the same treatment as other school systems for purposes of the MFP and local taxing
authority.
Provides for submission of the proposed amendment to the voters at the statewide election to be
held Nov. 4, 2014.
(Amends Const. Art. VIII, §13(D)(1))