Requests the Department of Education to issue a report as to the number of joint-use agreements in place throughout the state and include a plan to promote the use of such agreements.
Impact
If successfully implementing SCR95, the Department of Education will be tasked with conducting a survey to identify the current state of joint-use agreements within Louisiana. This initiative could significantly impact state laws by formally documenting the presence and prevalence of these agreements while outlining obstacles that prevent their wider adoption. Additionally, the Department is expected to develop a strategic plan to promote and facilitate the establishment of joint-use agreements statewide.
Summary
SCR95 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that urges the Department of Education to assess the barriers that hinder the establishment of joint-use agreements between schools and local governing entities. These agreements allow shared use of school properties and facilities, which can provide numerous benefits, such as increased physical activity opportunities and reduced costs for both schools and municipalities. The resolution highlights an ongoing concern with the limited utilization of such agreements, despite existing legislation aimed at encouraging their formation.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR95 appears to be overwhelmingly supportive, as it addresses a need for increased collaboration between schools and local governments. The acknowledgment of potential benefits, including enhanced community engagement and social cohesion, suggests a collective interest in improving community health outcomes. While there have been no substantial public objections noted in the available discussions, the resolution aims to create a tangible action plan that could face challenges in implementation due to resource constraints or local governance dynamics.
Contention
The main point of contention around SCR95 could arise from the varied interests of stakeholders, including schools, local governments, and community organizations. While the intent is to foster collaboration and shared resource utilization, there may be differing opinions on how to implement these agreements effectively, particularly regarding liability concerns and the management of shared facilities. The resolution requests a report to be delivered by February 1, 2015, which will likely initiate broader discussions on the effectiveness of joint-use agreements and the feasibility of the proposed strategies.
Requests the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and the Department of Education to implement a Farm to School Program and to assist schools with local procurement options for fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, and seafood.
Requests the Department of Health and Hospitals and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to submit jointly a report to the legislature regarding the availability of water for student consumption at elementary and secondary schools.
Encourages city, parish, and other local public school boards to enter into joint-use agreements for the use of school facilities to promote good health in Louisiana communities.
Requests the Department of Education to assist certain public school boards to enter into cooperative agreements for the provision of essential services.
Requests that the state Department of Education, Louisiana Workforce Commission, and Board of Regents jointly report on the status of data sharing agreements for the purpose of evaluating the Jump Start program
Requests the Department of Revenue and the state Department of Education to jointly report on the implementation of tax credits for donations to school tuition organizations. (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Requests the U. S. President to issue an emergency declaration to use any and all U.S. resources, including military forces and martial law, to stop the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, and to ban the use of certain chemical dispersants in the Deepwater Horizon oil spill response operation.