Louisiana House Bill HR79

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/11/15
• Refer: 5/12/15
• Report Pass: 5/26/15

Caption

Creates a special subcommittee to study certain matters relative to registrars of voters (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The formation of the special subcommittee is designed to facilitate a comprehensive study of the existing criteria and procedures affecting registrars' salaries and evaluations. The subcommittee will be comprised of members from the House Committees on Appropriations and Governmental Affairs, allowing for a multidisciplinary approach. As registrars are evaluated based on merit, the outcomes of this study could lead to proposed legislation that might influence their salary structures and performance evaluations significantly, providing a clearer framework for their roles and responsibilities.

Summary

House Resolution 79 (HR79) establishes a special subcommittee within the Louisiana House of Representatives tasked with examining issues related to the compensation and evaluation of registrars of voters. This initiative acknowledges the critical role that registrars play in managing voter registration and conducting elections within their parishes. By creating this subcommittee, the House aims to address potential inefficiencies or inconsistencies in the current system, especially considering financial pressures on state and local governments.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HR79 appears to be supportive of enhancing the governance surrounding registrars of voters. However, it also raises concerns among some about the implications of changing current compensation structures or performance benchmarks, particularly in an environment of fiscal austerity. Stakeholders from various local authorities may have mixed feelings regarding potential reforms, emphasizing either necessary improvements or defending existing practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the specific criteria for evaluating registrars and determining their compensation packages. Critics may argue that changes could lead to inconsistencies across parishes or undermine the independence of registrars. Proponents emphasize the need for updated methodologies that enhance accountability and support voter registration efforts. As discussions progress, the implications of the subcommittee's findings will be closely monitored as they could set precedents for future voting administration practices.