DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 582 Original 2015 Regular Session Adams
Abstract: Provides for the collection of fees for the Public Service Commission for its participation
in the State Rail Safety Participation Program.
Proposed law authorizes the commission to adopt rules and regulations for the purpose of assessing
reasonable user fees to be imposed annually against the railroad companies operating within the state
of La.
Proposed law requires the total amount of fees estimated to be collected not exceed the amount
estimated by the commission to be necessary to recover the costs of implementing the Federal
Railroad Safety Act of 1970.
Proposed law authorizes the commission to consider the gross ton miles for railroad operations
within La. to provide for an equitable allocation. Further requires railroad companies operating in
La. to provide the commission all information necessary to determine an equitable fee structure.
Proposed law requires the railroad safety fees be collected by the Dept. of Revenue. Further requires
all funds received by the department in the form of railroad safety fees be deposited immediately
upon receipt into the state treasury. Provides that after compliance with the requirements of the state
constitution relative to the Bond Security and Redemption Fund, and prior to monies being placed
in the state general fund, an amount equal to the fees required to be deposited be credited to a special
fund known as the "Commission Rail Safety Fund". Further requires the monies in such fund be
used for the expenses of the operations of the commission in its administration of this program.
(Adds R.S. 45:563)