Louisiana House Bill HB787

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/21/15
• Refer: 4/22/15

Caption

Appropriates funds to BESE for payment of attorney fees and costs in the matter of "P.B., by and through his next friend, Cassandra Berry, et al. vs. John White, et al."

Impact

The appropriation of funds through HB 787 directly impacts the operation of BESE by ensuring that it can fulfill its financial responsibilities in legal matters. This legislation may influence the board's ability to manage its budget and allocate resources effectively across educational initiatives. The inclusion of such funding reflects the state's approach to managing litigation associated with public education and could set a precedent for future legal financial obligations.

Summary

House Bill 787 is a legislative proposal aimed at appropriating $700,000 from the Louisiana General Fund for the fiscal year 2015-2016. The funds are designated for the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to cover the attorney fees and costs associated with a lawsuit titled 'P.B., by and through his next friend, Cassandra Berry, et al. vs. John White, et al.'. This legal matter is particularly significant as it underscores the state's commitment to addressing legal obligations arising from past court decisions regarding public education policies.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 787 appears to be neutral to positive among proponents of the measure, who recognize the importance of adhering to court rulings and ensuring that educational entities have the necessary resources to handle legal disputes. However, concerns may arise regarding the allocation of public funds and the broader implications of legal settlements in the education sector, which could lead to debates among various stakeholders.

Contention

Although specific points of contention regarding HB 787 were not extensively elaborated in the provided documents, the ongoing legalities surrounding public education funding often draw scrutiny. The opposition may arise from concerns regarding how such appropriations could divert funds from other critical educational needs or initiatives. This bill highlights the challenges faced by state educational boards in navigating legal responsibilities while ensuring quality education for students.