Requests the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture and Rural Development to study increasing the per pupil amount spent on vocational agriculture, agribusiness, and agriscience programs in Louisiana.
Impact
The resolution points out that the current per-pupil funding of at least fifty dollars has not changed for over fifteen years. Given that agricultural revenues in Louisiana reached over eleven billion dollars last year, there is an evident need for investment in education that aligns with these economic activities. By advocating for an increase in funding, the resolution aims to ensure that educational materials and supplies adequately meet the demands of a growing agricultural sector, thereby potentially improving job readiness and skill development for students in these fields.
Summary
Senate Resolution 65 urges the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture and Rural Development to conduct a study on increasing the per-pupil funding for vocational agriculture, agribusiness, and agriscience programs in Louisiana. This resolution highlights the importance of vocational education in supporting the agricultural sector, which is a significant contributor to Louisiana's economy. Legislative backing aims to enhance educational resources available for students involved in these essential programs, reflecting a commitment to developing a skilled workforce in the agriculture domain.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SR65 appears to be positive, with recognition of the vitality of agricultural education as a means to fortify the state’s economy. The resolution's proactive stance indicates a responsive approach to educational funding, intended to nurture future professionals who can contribute to the sector. However, the necessity for the resolution itself hints at previous challenges in funding allocation, indicating an area where legislative intervention is required to achieve broader educational goals.
Contention
While SR65 does not appear to have significant points of contention based on the documentation reviewed, it does call upon the Senate Committee to evaluate existing funding structures. It emphasizes the urgency for reform, suggesting that without such a study and potential adjustments, Louisiana risks falling behind in agricultural education quality. The dialogue around this resolution may reveal underlying tensions regarding educational funding priorities and resource allocation within the state's budget.
Requests the Senate and House committees on agriculture, forestry, aquaculture, and rural development to meet and function as a joint committee to study and make recommendations regarding the appropriate level of support to further the missions, goals, and priorities of the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center and the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center.
Authorizes and requests the chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture and Rural Development to appoint a subcommittee to study and address the devastation of the forest industry due to the infestation of beetles
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry to study and make recommendations on ways to increase urban forestry in the state.
Requests the Department of Transportation and Development to study solutions to the buildup of sediment around Louisiana ports and to consult with the Department of Agriculture and Forestry.
Requests the Department of Education to establish a group to study the current state of agriculture education in elementary and secondary schools. (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Urges and requests the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, in collaboration with the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center and Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center, to study the feasibility of promoting the growth, production, and use of organic produce in this state