Louisiana House Bill HCR25

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/22/16
• Refer: 3/23/16
• Report Pass: 5/2/16
• Engrossed: 5/9/16
• Refer: 5/10/16
• Report Pass: 5/16/16
• Passed: 6/1/16

Caption

Directs each state department to submit to the commissioner of administration, the legislature, and the Task Force on Structural Changes in Budget and Tax Policy, an efficiency report that outlines initiatives they will undertake to ensure more efficient operations in Fiscal Year 2016-2017 and beyond (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

Impact

This resolution calls for a systematic review of state government operations, which may lead to significant changes in how departments function. By outlining their respective initiatives, departments will be encouraged to eliminate duplication of services and improve policies that hinder efficient operations. The reports will also cover procurement processes, civil service procedures, and new technology uses aimed at modernizing government practices. As such, this could mean a shift in state governance towards greater accountability and efficiency which could have long-term financial implications.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution No. 25 (HCR25) directs the executive branch departments of Louisiana state government to submit efficiency reports aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness starting from the Fiscal Year 2016-2017. The resolution was proposed in light of ongoing budget deficits, projected to reach $747 million for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. The intent is to encourage each department to evaluate its practices and structures to find potential savings or ways to generate additional revenues for the state. The success of this initiative hinges on a thorough assessment of all operational areas within the government.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around HCR25 appears to be supportive, as it promotes transparency and encourages government departments to adopt a proactive approach to operational efficiency. Legislators recognize the necessity of fiscal reform, especially given the continuous budgetary strains. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding the execution of these reforms and whether the proposed reporting system will produce the intended results without overburdening the departments involved.

Contention

While Resolution HCR25 promotes efficiency, there may be contention regarding the report's implementation. Some lawmakers might worry about the feasibility of gathering comprehensive reports from each department within the stipulated timeline and whether the proposed measures will lead to actionable outcomes or merely serve as a bureaucratic exercise. Additionally, concerns could arise about the impact on employees and services as departments are pushed to prioritize efficiency over maintaining existing standards or practices.