Louisiana House Bill HB711

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/16
• Refer: 3/4/16
• Refer: 3/14/16
• Report Pass: 4/12/16
• Engrossed: 5/11/16
• Refer: 5/12/16
• Report Pass: 5/24/16
• Enrolled: 6/5/16
• Chaptered: 6/17/16
• Passed: 6/17/16

Caption

Provides relative to release of legislative audits

Impact

The enactment of HB 711 would introduce significant changes to the legislative auditor's operational transparency. Traditionally, audit reports are subject to public records law, meaning they are generally accessible to the public shortly after their issuance. With the new provisions, there could be more instances where audit reports are not immediately available, which could impact public oversight and accountability regarding government spending and operational efficiency. This change raises questions about the balance between legitimate confidentiality concerns and the public's right to know.

Summary

House Bill 711 aims to amend the legislative statutes regarding the release of audit reports issued by the legislative auditor in Louisiana. Specifically, it allows for the issuance of a temporary restraining order or injunctive relief to prevent the release of certain audit reports. The bill stipulates that any application for such restraining orders must be heard in a timely manner, ensuring a court decision is rendered within a short timeframe. By changing how these audit reports can be withheld, the bill seeks to add an extra layer of protection for sensitive information deemed confidential by law.

Sentiment

The discussion around HB 711 presents a polarized sentiment, reflecting a typical tension between transparency and confidentiality in government operations. Proponents argue that certain audits may contain sensitive information that should remain undisclosed to protect individuals' privacy or ongoing investigations. Conversely, critics argue that this bill could undermine the transparency essential in governmental auditing processes, ultimately reducing public trust in the legislature's accountability. As a result, the debate is characterized by conflicting views on the need for public access to government audits versus the right to protect confidential information.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential for misuse of the provisions allowing for the withholding of audit reports. Opponents are concerned that the bill could lead to arbitrary decisions by entities seeking to obscure information that should rightfully be public, fostering an environment where accountability is compromised. Additionally, there are worries regarding how broadly the courts will interpret 'confidential' information. The potential implications for public scrutiny of governmental functions make this bill a focal point of discussion in legislative circles.