(Constitutional Amendment) Prohibits the supplanting of state funds for tuition and fee increases for institutions of higher education (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Impact
By implementing this amendment, HB 323 would create a framework that ensures higher education institutions are given consistent financial support from the state, particularly in years when student fees rise. The bill mandates that the total appropriation from state funds for higher education cannot fall below the previous fiscal year's level, except in specific circumstances requiring significant legislative consent. This could help in addressing financial uncertainties faced by educational institutions and ensuring they can plan adequately for their funding needs.
Summary
House Bill 323 proposes a constitutional amendment that aims to protect state funding for higher education in Louisiana. This bill specifically prohibits the supplanting or replacement of state appropriations for higher education during fiscal years where tuition and fees are increased. This ensures that any increase in self-generated revenues from these fees does not lead to a reduction in the funding provided by the state, thereby stabilizing financial support for state universities and colleges over time.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 323 is generally positive among advocates of higher education funding, who view the bill as a necessary safeguard against budget cuts that disproportionately affect universities. Supporters argue that such protections are crucial for maintaining the quality of education and the stability of institutions. However, there may be concerns from those who fear that it could impose restrictions on the state’s general budgeting processes, affecting other areas of public service funding.
Contention
Despite the perceived benefits of HB 323, there are notable points of contention. Critics may argue that the bill could inhibit the state legislature's flexibility to respond to budgetary crises or reallocate funds where they might be more urgently needed. The requirement for a two-thirds majority for funding reductions could complicate fiscal decisions during challenging economic times. Thus, while aimed at fortifying higher education funding, it raises questions regarding fiscal responsibility and governance at the state level.
(Constitutional Amendment) Prohibits the supplanting of state funds for tuition and fee increases for institutions of higher education (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Exempts public postsecondary education tuition and fees from requirements for imposing a new or increasing an existing fee and provides relative to the authority to set tuition and fees (RR1 SEE FISC NOTE SG RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Exempts public postsecondary education tuition amounts and mandatory fees from requirements for imposing a new or increasing an existing tax or fee (EG SEE FISC NOTE SG RV See Note)
Constitutional amendment to authorize the postsecondary education management boards to establish tuition and fee amounts charged by institutions under their supervision and management. (2/3-CA13sl(A)) (RR INCREASE SG RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Exempts public postsecondary education fees from requirements for imposing a new or increasing an existing fee (RE INCREASE SG RV See Note)
Constitutional amendment to repeal certain constitutionally dedicated and protected allocations and funds. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (OR INCREASE GF RV See Note)