Louisiana House Bill HB562

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/15
• Refer: 4/3/15
• Refer: 4/13/15
• Report Pass: 5/26/15
• Engrossed: 6/1/15

Caption

Requires the Revenue Estimating Conference to designate certain general fund money from mineral revenue as restricted and prohibits including such revenue in the executive budget (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)

Impact

The implementation of HB 562 will significantly alter the fiscal controls surrounding mineral revenue within Louisiana, particularly in the context of the general fund. By restricting revenues that exceed certain thresholds, the bill seeks to ensure that excess mineral revenues are not absorbed into the regular executive budget, thus ensuring that specific planning and appropriations occur for these funds. This is intended to foster a more disciplined financial strategy regarding the unpredictable nature of oil prices and to safeguard the state's financial interests.

Summary

House Bill 562 is designed to modify how mineral revenues are treated within Louisiana's state financial framework. The bill mandates that the Revenue Estimating Conference (REC) disclose both the forecast price per barrel of oil used to project mineral revenues for the upcoming fiscal year and the highest actual price from the previous year. If the forecast price exceeds 90% of the highest actual price, the REC is required to designate the revenue as restricted, limiting how it can be appropriated. This mechanism aims to provide greater accountability and transparency in state budget processes related to mineral resources.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 562 appears to be supportive among those concerned with fiscal responsibility and transparency in state finance. Many believe that the bill's provisions will encourage prudent management of mineral revenues, reducing the risk of budget shortfalls as state officials will have more structured guidelines on revenue utilization. However, some dissenting opinions exist, expressing worries that the restrictions could complicate the budgetary process and lead to limitations in funding available for critical state programs.

Contention

Notably, one point of contention in the discussions surrounding HB 562 focuses on the balance between fiscal accountability and flexibility. Critics argue that excessively stringent regulations may impede timely access to funds for urgent state needs. Additionally, the prohibition on including restricted revenues in the executive budget might lead to challenges during the budgetary appropriations process, especially as Louisiana’s economy is closely tied to fluctuating oil prices. These challenges could complicate financial planning and execution for various state initiatives.