Abolishes boards and commissions, authorities, districts, and like entities that are inactive. (8/1/16)
Impact
The passage of SB148 will directly impact several statutes related to governance in Louisiana, specifically concerning various boards and commissions. The bill amends and repeals specific sections of state law, including provisions related to juvenile detention facilities and hospice care, thereby restructuring oversight and management in these areas. The Act looks to simplify the state’s bureaucratic landscape, which may lead to faster decision-making processes and a clearer delineation of responsibilities among remaining entities.
Summary
Senate Bill 148, sponsored by Senator Gatti, focuses on the restructuring of state government in Louisiana by abolishing, transferring, and consolidating certain boards, commissions, and similar entities that are deemed inactive or no longer serve a public purpose. The bill emphasizes the intent to streamline state government functions and reduce redundancy by eliminating entities that have not been effective in fulfilling their intended roles. This legislation points towards a more efficient operational framework within the state's government structure, aligning with broader goals of efficiency and accountability in public service delivery.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB148 appears largely supportive from those advocating for governmental efficiency and reform. Proponents argue that consolidating redundant boards and commissions is a step towards streamlining operations and cutting unnecessary expenditures. However, there is some concern from critics about potential deficiencies in oversight and representation, particularly in areas that rely on the expertise and focus of specialized boards which could be lost post-consolidation. This reflects a tension between improving efficiency and ensuring thorough governance.
Contention
Notable points of contention include concerns that the removal of certain boards could undermine specialized oversight in critical areas like juvenile detention and health care services. Opponents argue that eliminating these entities could lead to a lack of accountability and reduce the ability of the state to effectively regulate and support these vulnerable sectors. The discussion surrounding SB148 is indicative of broader debates about the role of government and how to balance efficiency with effective public service.
Creates the Dept. of Health and Hospitals and Children and Family Services, abolishes the Dept. of Health and Hospitals (DHH) and the Dept. of Children and Family Services (DCFS), and creates separate entities within the new department as successors to the abolished departments (RE INCREASE See Note)
Provides for uniform definitions of independent contractor and employee and for penalties for the misclassification of employees. (2/3 - CA7s2.1(A)) (1/1/22) (EN SEE FISC NOTE OF RV See Note)
Transfers certain family and support programs from the Department of Children and Family Services to the Louisiana Workforce Commission and renames Louisiana Workforce Commission to Louisiana Works (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Caps the amount of losses a taxpayer may claim on certain tax returns for the net operating loss deduction and repeals the deduction for certain wage expenses (EG +$14,500,000 GF RV See Note)
Modifies the Louisiana Doula Registry Board within the Louisiana Department of Health and provides for respective regulatory authority (EN +$2,495 FF EX See Note)