Creates commission to study the organization and reorganization of certain law enforcement officials and agencies within Orleans Parish. (gov sig)
Impact
Should SB 164 be enacted, it would modify state laws by establishing a formal mechanism for studying the organization of law enforcement in Orleans Parish and potentially leading to significant changes in how these services are delivered. The commission would be tasked with making recommendations that could reshape governance structures and financial oversight of law enforcement agencies in the region. This could result in improving the accountability and effectiveness of law enforcement services, thereby ensuring better alignment with community needs.
Summary
Senate Bill 164 proposes the creation of the Orleans Parish Law Enforcement Streamline and Accountability Commission, tasked with investigating and analyzing the effectiveness of law enforcement services in Orleans Parish. The primary aim of this commission is to evaluate current law enforcement strategies and consider potential restructuring, including the feasibility of merging the New Orleans Police Department with the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Department. The bill emphasizes a comprehensive examination of budgetary concerns, funding levels, staffing, and operational efficiencies within the current law enforcement framework.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SB 164 appears to be mixed. Proponents of the bill argue that it represents a necessary step towards enhancing accountability and efficiency within law enforcement agencies. They view the creation of the commission as an opportunity to critically analyze and improve the police and sheriff departments' effectiveness. Conversely, critics express concerns over potential bureaucratic delays and the inherent challenges of implementing changes, especially regarding the merger of two distinct entities equipped with different operational cultures and community perceptions.
Contention
Notable points of contention related to SB 164 include debates over the necessity and practicality of merging the New Orleans Police Department and the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Department. Some stakeholders worry that such a merger could dilute accountability or change the dynamics of community policing. Additionally, there are discussions surrounding the funding mechanisms for these entities and the potential impact on overall public safety and resource allocation. The bill also raises questions about governance and whether an elected superintendent of police would serve the public interest effectively.
Creates the Orleans Justice and Rehabilitation Reform Commission to analyze, study, and recommend improved methods for managing and coordinating such services in Orleans Parish. (8/1/13)
Creates the Local Schools Commission of Orleans to study the feasibility of returning control of all Recovery Schools District schools located in Orleans Parish back to the Orleans Parish School Board.
Creates a task force to study the costs of expenses and the utilization of the New Orleans ferries, connecting Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Bernard parishes.
Creates a commission to study the feasibility of consolidating the Washington Parish and Bogalusa City school systems. (gov sig) (EN NO IMPACT LF See Note)
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
A concurrent resolution recognizing wild rice as sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota and critical to the health and identity of all Minnesota citizens and ecosystems and establishing a commitment to passing legislation to protect wild rice and the freshwater resources upon which it depends.