Authorizes advertisements on Department of Wildlife and Fisheries property (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD RV See Note)
Impact
The enactment of HB 283 introduces a new avenue for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to leverage its properties for promotional purposes. This change means that advertising can be integrated into the management of state wildlife areas, which may lead to increased visibility for businesses that participate in sponsorship while potentially enhancing the state's revenue streams. However, the implementation of this measure also necessitates careful regulatory oversight to ensure that advertising does not conflict with the department's mission to protect and manage wildlife resources.
Summary
House Bill 283, enacted into law in 2015, deals with the placement of advertising and sponsorship signs on property owned by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The bill empowers the commission to authorize the creation, maintenance, and placement of such advertising on immovable property, as well as on departmental vehicles, vessels, and other assets. It aims to generate additional revenue through sponsorship agreements while promoting awareness of the state's wildlife resources. The law stipulates that all rules and regulations pertaining to these activities must be developed in accordance with the state's Administrative Procedure Act.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 283 appears to be generally positive, especially among those who advocate for innovative funding solutions within state departments. Supporters see the potential for enhancing public engagement with wildlife resources through sponsorships. However, there are considerations about the balance between commercial interests and conservation values, with some stakeholders raising concerns over how advertising might impact the natural beauty and integrity of state-owned lands.
Contention
While HB 283 passed without opposition in the Senate, there may still be underlying contention regarding the scope of advertising permitted. Critics worry that allowing commercial advertising could obscure the natural landscapes or create distractions for visitors seeking a wildlife experience. The bill notably gives the commission significant authority over the types of advertising allowed, which may raise questions about the limits of commercialization on public lands and the potential need for public input regarding specific advertising initiatives.
Authorizes the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to biennially adjust fees in accordance with the Consumer Price Index (EG SEE FISC NOTE SD RV See Note)
Authorizes the Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries to assign hull identification numbers to certain vessels manufactured in this state (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD RV See Note)
Authorizes the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to regulate the taking of certain species of fish and to require the use of vessel monitoring systems in certain circumstances (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)
Authorizes the secretary of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to certify "organizations involved in charitable hunting and fishing activities" and waives license fees for such organizations (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD RV See Note)
Provides for the removal of criminal penalties and reclassification of certain wildlife violations and provides for enforcement and recovery of civil fines by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (EN +$1,145,563 SD RV See Note)